Cyprus seizes large batch of smuggled tobacco at checkpoint

Cyprus customs authorities have seized a large quantity of tobacco products illegally brought into the Republic of Cyprus through a checkpoint. The incident occurred at one of the crossings, where officers from the Customs and Police Departments detained a 69-year-old man transporting tobacco products without paying taxes.

His vehicle contained 57 boxes of 200 cigarettes, three packs of 20 cigarettes, and 2.64 kilograms of rolling tobacco. All products were confiscated, and an administrative case was opened against the man. After paying the fine, he was released.

According to the investigation, similar checks were carried out at other crossing points along the division line, including Ayios Dhometios and the Famagusta area. In one case, a taxi with a foreign passenger was stopped, and cigarette boxes were also found inside.

Authorities note that most of these violations are related to moving goods through the northern part of the island, where control over tobacco product movement remains limited. The Customs Department emphasized that it is increasing inspections to combat illegal trade, which harms the state budget and undermines the legal market.