20 Million Cigarettes and Over 38 Tonnes of Tobacco Seized in EU Countries
Poinews.com – Authorities across the European Union, in partnership with OLAF and Europol, have dismantled a significant illegal cigarette distribution network. This operation targeted groups suspected of creating and selling counterfeit tobacco products, with an estimated value of €10 million, according to OLAF’s recent statement.
Operation Targets Fraudulent Tobacco Trade
Last month, law enforcement conducted 23 raids in residential areas, businesses, and industrial facilities spanning Alicante, Cuenca, Huelva, Murcia, Sevilla, and Toledo in Spain. During these actions, officials seized 18 vehicles, manufacturing tools, encrypted devices, €170,000 in cash, and multiple firearms.
A total of 50 individuals were detained, including two suspects who were transferred to Polish authorities. The joint effort involved Spain’s Guardia Civil, Poland’s Central Bureau of Investigation, Portugal’s National Republican Guard, Lithuania’s Criminal Police Bureau, OLAF, and Europol.
“Smoking is dangerous,” stated Petr Klement, head of OLAF. “Smoking counterfeit cigarettes is even worse.” He further noted, “Beyond health risks, each illegal cigarette undermines tax revenues and supports organized crime.”
The ongoing investigations aim to uncover additional links within the illicit tobacco trade, with OLAF confirming that the probe is still active.
