“Illegal activity such as this can become a public safety issue, in addition, underground businesses do not pay taxes and become a drain rather than a contributor to our state.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

OAKLAND – The Oakland Police Department (OPD) Alcohol Beverage Action Team (ABAT) investigated an unlicensed smoke shop in East Oakland. On July 3, 2025, ABAT officers responded to tips from community members indicating that illegal activity was taking place at a shop in the 3500 block of Foothill Boulevard.

Through the coordinated efforts with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), and the California Department of Public Health’s Food and Drug Branch (CDPH), officers were able to take an illegal assault weapon off the street, along with a handgun, multiple pre-packaged bags of marijuana, untaxed cigarettes, and flavored tobacco products.

One suspect was taken into custody, and the case was referred to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. The Oakland City Attorney’s Office will follow up with legal action against the tenants, including civil charges and potential eviction.