Revenue seize contraband worth over €600,000 in Dublin, Cork and Meath

Today (16/03/2023), as part of routine checks, Revenue officers seized over 79,000 cigarettes and 57 litres of alcohol during the search of a vessel in Ringaskiddy, County Cork. The contraband goods, worth over €63,000 and representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of almost €50,000, were discovered in an Italian-registered vessel that had arrived via Belgium. Cigarettes of multiple brands were found during the search, including ‘L & M’ and ‘Marlboro’. The alcohol comprised wine, spirits and beer.

Separately, yesterday (15/03/2023), as part of routine operations, Revenue officers seized 75kgs of chewing tobacco at an address in County Meath. The illicit tobacco, branded ‘Makla’, has an estimated value of over €41,000. The product originated in Belgium and was destined for an address in Dublin.

Also this week (week commencing 13/03/2023), Revenue officers examining parcels at an address in Dublin, seized over €500,000 worth of contraband drugs and medicines. The illegal products, which included over 21kg of herbal cannabis, were discovered with the assistance of detector dogs, Bailey and Sam.

The discoveries were made in parcels of various types, ranging from toys to make up and bike accessories. The parcels had originated in the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, India and Canada, and were destined for various addresses throughout Ireland.

Investigations into all of these seizures are ongoing.

These seizures are part of Revenue’s ongoing operations targeting the shadow economy and smuggling. If businesses, or members of the public, have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295.

[ENDS 16/03/2023]