Czech customs officers say, they have uncovered a large-scale illegal cigarette operation in the Karlovy Vary Region. According to the General Directorate of Customs, the investigation led to searches of homes and other premises, supported by the intervention unit of the Plzeň Regional Police.
During the raids, authorities seized seven million cigarettes lacking proper tax stamps or carrying invalid ones. The estimated value of the seized tobacco products was CZK 35 million, with a calculated tax loss of CZK 31 million.
Customs officers seized more than CZK 10 million in cash and vehicles worth nearly CZK 2 million. Two foreign nationals were taken into custody.
The investigation revealed that this was not an isolated incident. The suspects allegedly smuggled untaxed cigarettes into the Czech Republic from neighboring EU countries, primarily Slovakia. The contraband was hidden in cover loads transported by truck and was intended for distribution in border town shops and markets.
The case is under further investigation.
Photo credit: The Customs Administration of the Czech Republic
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