Revenue seizes cigarettes and tobacco in Drogheda

In two separate operations over the past week officers from Revenue’s Customs Service seized a total of 57,000 cigarettes and over 20kgs of tobacco with a retail value of €38,000 in Drogheda, Co. Louth.

In a joint operation with An Garda Síochána at Drogheda market, last Saturday (29/8/15), officers seized 12,000 cigarettes and 3.5kg of hand rolling tobacco.

A vehicle used for distribution of the un-excised and counterfeit product was also seized.

Cigarette brands seized included 'MG', 'M&J', '777', 'SK's' and 'Excellence'. Tobacco brands included ‘'Amber Leaf' and 'Samson'.

In a planned operation yesterday (2/9/2015) officers detained a van in Drogheda which was found to contain a quantity of un-excised cigarettes and tobacco including counterfeit ‘Marlboro’ cigarettes with counterfeit Irish Tax Stamps affixed.

In addition to the counterfeit Marlboro cigarettes, other cigarette brands seized included 'Patria', 'MG' and '169 Black Edition' while tobacco brands included 'Amber Leaf', 'Samson', 'Condor', 'Benson &Hedges' and 'Drum'.

In a follow up search of an apartment in Drogheda and under warrant, officers found further quantities of un-excised cigarettes and tobacco.

A total of 45,000 cigarettes and 17 kg of hand rolling tobacco along with the vehicle were seized in this operation.

An Irish male in his thirties was questioned.

Investigations are continuing with a view to prosecution.

The seizure is part of Revenues on-going operations targeting the supply and sale of illegal cigarettes in the shadow economy. If business or members of the public have any information regarding the smuggling or sale of illegal cigarettes or tobacco, they can contact Revenue in confidence on free phone number 1800 295295.

Ends: 3/9/2015