Larnaca, Cyprus. Three Czech passengers departing from Larnaca airport were arrested on Thursday after customs officers found 42,000 untaxed cigarettes in their luggage. The travellers were bound for the United Kingdom.
Customs inspection and seizure
Customs officers found a total of 210 boxes of 200 cigarettes during an inspection, with 70 boxes in each traveller’s luggage. The cigarettes and luggage were confiscated.
Out-of-court settlement
The three passengers were initially arrested but later released after a proposal for an out-of-court settlement was accepted. Each paid €4,200, totalling €12,600.
What steps do you think airports should take to deter passengers from carrying untaxed goods?