The lure of substantial profits is driving a surge in tobacco smuggling from Cyprus to the UK, with customs authorities intercepting multiple attempts in recent months.
Last Friday, three individuals were caught at Larnaca Airport with 246 boxes of cigarettes and over 13 kg of rolling tobacco, destined for England. The illicit cargo, valued at over €35,000 in the UK, would have netted the smugglers significant gains given the low purchase price in the occupied territories.
Despite facing arrest, the trio managed to avoid further legal action by paying a combined €20,000 to the Cyprus Customs Department. The seized tobacco lacked mandatory health warnings and security features, confirming its illegal origin.
This incident is part of a growing trend. On June 4, another group was apprehended with 392 boxes of cigarettes and 43 kg of rolling tobacco. Unlike the recent case, these individuals were remanded in custody. (in cyprus)
