Retailers across Tripura reported fake Gold Flake cigarette packets filled with newspaper scraps, triggering fears of an organized supply-chain fraud network affecting shops in Amarpur, Belonia, and Birchandra Manu while traders demand urgent police investigation and stricter monitoring measures.
Fresh concerns have emerged in Tripura’s retail market after several shopkeepers reported receiving sealed Gold Flake cigarette packets allegedly filled with folded newspaper scraps instead of cigarettes. The incident, first detected in Birchandra Manu, has now spread to other areas including Belonia and Amarpur, triggering fears of a larger supply-chain fraud operating within the state.
According to local traders, the suspicious packets appeared fully sealed and showed no visible signs of tampering from the outside. However, when customers opened the packets, they discovered tightly folded newspaper pieces carefully inserted in place of cigarette sticks. The unusual discovery quickly caused panic among retailers and consumers alike.
The issue first surfaced when multiple shopkeepers in Birchandra Manu received complaints from regular customers. Within days, traders from Belonia and nearby areas also began reporting similar incidents involving Gold Flake packets purchased through regular distribution channels. Retailers said the growing number of cases has damaged customer confidence and created uncertainty in the market.
Initial suspicions were directed toward the manufacturing process, but traders later claimed that the newspaper scraps found inside the packets appeared to be from local publications. This has strengthened suspicions that the tampering may have taken place somewhere within the regional supply chain rather than at the factory level.
Several retailers now believe an organized fraud network may be involved in opening cigarette packets, removing the contents, stuffing them with newspaper scraps, and resealing them before distribution. Shopkeepers said the alleged racket has caused direct financial losses because customers are returning the packets and demanding refunds.
One trader from Belonia expressed concern that the scam could spread further if immediate action is not taken. Retailers also warned that repeated incidents could severely affect the reputation of local businesses that depend heavily on cigarette sales for daily income.
Police sources confirmed that complaints related to the matter have already been lodged. However, no official statement has yet been issued either by law enforcement authorities or by the company associated with the cigarette brand. Traders are demanding a thorough investigation to identify those responsible and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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Retailers have also called upon distribution agencies and company representatives to strengthen monitoring systems, inspect consignments more carefully, and verify stocks before delivery to shops. As concern spreads across Tripura’s retail sector, the incident is increasingly being viewed as a serious test of the state’s ability to tackle organized supply-chain fraud and protect both consumers and small businesses from further losses.
