Authorities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up enforcement against illegal tobacco manufacturing after officials shut down an unauthorized cigarette production unit in Bhimber during a targeted operation.

The raid was conducted by the Inland Revenue Department’s Bhimber Circle following specific intelligence regarding unlawful manufacturing activities along Gujrat Road. The operation was supervised by Assistant Commissioner Inland Revenue Chaudhry Azhar Hussain, officials confirmed.

During the action, enforcement teams sealed the premises and seized a substantial stock of non-duty-paid cigarettes marketed under the Rider brand. Legal proceedings have been initiated against individuals allegedly involved in running the illegal facility.

Officials said the operation was part of an ongoing campaign launched under the directives of Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, who has ordered strict action against tax evasion and illicit cigarette production across the region.

Despite clear instructions from the highest level of government, sources indicate that several illegal manufacturing units continue to operate discreetly in areas including Barnala and Bhimber, raising concerns over gaps in local enforcement and regulatory oversight.

The Prime Minister has reportedly adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal cigarette manufacturing, stressing that unauthorized production and smuggling networks will not be allowed to function under any circumstances. However, insiders claim that certain administrative and political elements may still be enabling such operations to continue unnoticed.