Oakland Ca. Crime, Unlicensed Smoke Shop Busted for Selling Cannabis and Flavored Tobacco

JB Quinnon
May 24
2 min read

Oakland Ca. Crime, Unlicensed Smoke Shop Busted for Selling Cannabis and Flavored Tobacco

In a recent enforcement action by the Oakland Police Department, a smoke shop located on the 3500 block of International Boulevard was shut down for illegally selling marijuana and flavored tobacco products without proper licensing.

The raid, which took place on May 23, 2025, is part of a broader citywide effort to crack down on unauthorized retailers and protect public health.

During the operation, authorities confiscated marijuana, flavored tobacco products, and other controlled substances.

One individual at the scene was cited for possession of a controlled substance, although law enforcement has not confirmed whether that person was the store owner. The case has since been referred to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for further criminal and civil review.

Oakland officials emphasized that the sale of cannabis and tobacco products requires strict compliance with California state regulations. This includes obtaining valid licenses and business permits. In addition, flavored tobacco products are banned in several jurisdictions across the state, including Oakland, due to concerns about youth access and health risks.

This isn’t the first time Oakland authorities have taken action against an unlicensed business. Earlier this year, a similar bust occurred at a smoke shop on San Pablo Avenue, where police recovered a range of illegal products, including cannabis, flavored tobacco, and even psilocybin mushrooms. That business was also found to be operating without proper permits.

These incidents highlight the importance of regulatory oversight in California’s evolving cannabis and tobacco markets. As city officials continue to enforce compliance, they urge business owners to ensure they meet all legal requirements before opening shop—or risk being shut down.

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