In a concerted crackdown on unlawful substance distribution in Oakland, a joint operation between the local police and the DEA has led to the seizure of drugs, contraband tobacco, and firearms from a smoke shop on International Boulevard. According to the Oakland Police Department's (OPD), the sweep took place last month and targeted businesses flouting the law.

Last February 22, investigators from OPD's Alcohol Beverage and Tobacco (ABAT) Unit, alongside agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) descended upon a licensed tobacco store in the 5900 block. There, they discovered a sizable stash of illegally possessed cannabis and its derivatives, suspected crystal methamphetamine, illicit flavored tobacco products, and an abundance of untaxed cigarettes.

Adding to the haul were two loaded guns found on the premises, yet, no arrests were made on site. Instead, the case has been passed to the Alameda County District Attorney's Office for the consideration of charges, while the City Attorney's Office of Oakland mulls over extra legal consequences.

While the OPD continues its commitment to engage with local residents, the focus remains on instructing store proprietors about the grave repercussions associated with peddling illegal flavored tobacco to youth under 21. This type of enforcement offers both a shield for younger community members and a check against the proprietors of establishments engaging in deleterious, unlawful conduct.

For those amongst the Oakland community wishing to report unlawful tobacco sales, or sales to underage individuals, the department has provided a resource: the OPD encourages concerned citizens to call the ABAT Complaint Hotline at (510) 777-8677.