Broome County Gas Station Raid: $18K, Illegal Vapes, Two Arrested

What started as a routine compliance check in the Town of Colesville quickly turned into something much bigger. Authorities found illegal cigarettes, vaping products, marijuana, and thousands of dollars in cash, which led to charges against two men.

How a Standard Check Uncovered Much More

On February 12, 2026, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and the Special Investigations Unit Task Force teamed up with the county Health Department to check if the Empire Plaza gas station located at Sova Road was following New York’s rules on tobacco and vape sales. These checks happen regularly to keep businesses honest.

While investigating, detectives searched the business and said they found hundreds of illegal flavored vapes, marijuana, untaxed cigarettes, and about $18,000 in cash. Everything was taken in as evidence.

READ MORE: Massive Drug Smuggling Operation Busted in Upstate New York

Two Men Arrested After Raid

Police arrested MD Omar Faruk, 61, and Mohammad M. Rahman, 39, who appeared to be living at the gas station. Both men were charged with Criminal Tax Fraud in the 5th Degree, a Class A misdemeanor, and Possession or Transport for Sale of Unstamped or Unlawfully Stamped Cigarettes, also a misdemeanor.

Faruk was released from custody with an appearance ticket and will have to appear in Colesville Town Court at a later date. Rahman was turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol after reportedly failing to appear for immigration proceedings.

Why the Crackdown Matters for Health

Health officials say flavored vapes are often aimed at younger people. That’s why New York raised the legal age for buying tobacco to 21 and banned most flavored vaping products. These checks help protect public health and keep these products out of teens' hands.

Officials also warn that vaping isn’t harmless. It can cause nicotine addiction, lung injuries, and possibly other long-term health problems.

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Working Together: What Happens If You Don’t

Authorities say this case shows how law enforcement and public health teams can work together. Their message for other businesses is simple: follow the rules, or you could face fines, lose your license, or even be charged with a crime.