Nicosia, Cyprus. Police intercepted a van on Wednesday morning after it entered government-controlled areas from the north, seizing a large haul of cigarettes and tobacco. Two passengers were arrested and are due to appear before the Nicosia district court for a detention hearing.
Search and seizure
Police said officers searched the vehicle and recovered 127,000 cigarettes, 40,000 heated cigarettes (IQOS), 96 kilos of rolling tobacco, 102 kilos of narghile tobacco, and 1,000 cigarillos.
Arrests and court appearance
The two passengers, aged 37 and 39, were arrested on suspicion of negligent driving, illegal possession, and transport of duty-free goods. They are due to appear before the Nicosia district court for a detention hearing.
Investigation and enforcement efforts
A police spokesperson said all seized items are being documented and preserved as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities said the pursuit and seizure were part of continued efforts to combat the illegal transport of contraband from the north.
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