Islamabad: In a crackdown on unauthorized indoor smoking, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration on Friday sealed a sheesha café in Sector F-8 and arrested its operators for defying regulations. Despite holding a permit for terrace-only smoking, the café was found serving sheesha indoors during a surprise inspection conducted by a magistrate.
According to ICT officials, the establishment was operating in clear violation of local anti-smoking laws, which prohibit indoor smoking in public venues across the capital. The inspection team discovered multiple sheesha pipes actively in use within the café’s enclosed area, prompting immediate sealing of the premises and legal action against the owners.
Authorities revealed that the raid was initiated following repeated complaints from nearby residents about indoor smoking at the location. The magistrate, acting without prior notice, confirmed the violations firsthand during the inspection.
The ICT administration reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward unauthorized indoor smoking and stated that similar operations will continue across the city. Business owners have been warned to strictly adhere to the conditions of their permits or face stern consequences, including arrest and permanent closure of outlets.
Recent weeks have seen a surge in enforcement actions as part of a broader campaign to regulate sheesha cafés and public entertainment spaces. Several establishments across various sectors have already been issued warnings or shut down for breaching smoking laws.
Officials emphasized that the initiative is aimed at safeguarding public health and ensuring full compliance with anti-smoking regulations. Citizens have been encouraged to report violations via official channels for swift administrative action.
