Nicosia, Cyprus. Customs officers seized undeclared tobacco products from travellers at the Ledra Street and Ayios Dhometios crossing points over two days in late June and early July, authorities said on Friday. The checks were part of ongoing efforts to prevent tobacco smuggling through Cyprus crossing points.
June 30 seizure
A Romanian citizen travelling to Ireland was stopped on June 30. Officers found six boxes of 200 cigarettes without the required health warnings or traceability codes.
He was arrested and later released after paying a €360 out-of-court settlement. The tobacco products were confiscated.
July 1 seizure
On July 1, two British tourists travelling by taxi to the United Kingdom were checked at the Agios Dhometios crossing point. Officers discovered ten boxes of cigarettes and 250 grams of rolling tobacco, all lacking duty-free markings and safety codes.
The men were arrested and released after accepting a €690 settlement. All products were seized by customs authorities.
Customs warning
The customs department said the seized goods were intended for personal transport outside Cyprus but did not meet EU labelling and traceability standards.
Authorities reminded travellers that undeclared tobacco products may be confiscated and may be subject to fines under Cyprus customs law.