An illegal cigarette smuggling ring operating between Greece and Cyprus has been discovered, CNA Greek reported on Wednesday.
Cyprus’ Customs Department found illegal cigarettes passing through the mail, and announced that officers had investigated five locations in Nicosia believed to be used as storage units for the products.
Their investigation found 55 boxes containing 200 President Slims Superlights, 50 boxes with 200 Rothmans cigarettes, and 55 boxes that included Murano-branded cigarettes. The cigarettes totaled 5,487 euros in avoided taxes.
Authorities announced that four individuals holding Greek passports had been arrested.
The four individuals agreed to pay a court settlement amounting to 7,500 euros for their crime.
Upon receiving the sum, the four individuals were charged and released, while the cigarettes were destroyed by the Customs Department.
€30,000 SETTLEMENT
In a separate incident, the Customs Department received a settlement worth 30,000 euros when 277 boxes containing 200 cigarettes each and weighing 22kg were found on Saturday.
In addition to the boxes, 750g of tobacco was also seized.
Authorities arrested the person committing the offence and agreed to settle on a 30,000-euro settlement.
Upon receiving the settlement sum, the suspect was charged and released, and the illegal items were destroyed by the Customs Department.
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