Contraband Cigarettes from the TRNC Seized at Larnaca Airport Bound for England

A significant shipment of cigarettes from the TRNC, intended for illegal transportation to the United Kingdom, was intercepted at Larnaca Airport. Three passengers attempted to smuggle the illicit goods in their luggage.

According to the press office of the Cyprus Police, during the baggage inspection of three passengers scheduled to depart from Larnaca Airport to the UK on June 4, the Customs Department identified and confiscated a large quantity of untaxed tobacco products. The cigarettes were illegally brought into the Republic of Cyprus from the TRNC with the intention of exporting them to the United Kingdom.

The agency reported that a total of 392 boxes, each containing 200 cigarettes, and 43 kilograms of tobacco were found in six locations within the luggage. The products lacked health warning labels in Greek and Turkish languages, as well as protective measures and unique identification codes for tracking, indicating their untaxed status.

The passengers transporting the illegal goods were arrested and brought before the Larnaca District Court on June 6, which decided to detain them for two days.