For Immediate Release: March 25, 2024
The Oakland Police Department Alcohol Beverage and Tobacco (ABAT) Unit conducted a special investigation targeting smoke shops last month. On February 22, 2024, ABAT and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) inspected a licensed tobacco shop in the 5900 block of International Boulevard.
During the inspection, officers seized a large amount of illegally possessed cannabis and related products, suspected crystal methamphetamine, flavored prohibited tobacco products, and a large quantity of non-taxed cigarettes.
The officers also recovered two loaded firearms from the store. Although no arrests were made during the investigation, the case was referred to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for charging and the Oakland City Attorney’s Office for additional legal action.
OPD remains committed to working with our community members, focusing on educating store owners about the serious consequences associated with selling unlawful flavored tobacco products to those who are under the legal age of 21. The special enforcement provides an opportunity to keep the youth in our communities safe while holding smoke shops and business owners accountable for harmful and illegal activity.
To report prohibited sales of tobacco products and sales to minors in Oakland, please call the ABAT Complaint Hotline at (510) 777-8677.
