Delhi Customs Preventive Cracks Down on Illegal Cigarette Smuggling

New Delhi: Delhi Customs Preventive has taken strict action against the illegal import and storage of foreign-origin cigarettes. Based on specific information, a case was booked on January 20 and 21, 2024, leading to the seizure of 12.22 lakh sticks of various brands, including ESSE, Mond, Dunhill, Davidoff, Gudang Garam, and Platinum Seven.

The seized cigarettes, which were stored without specified statutory health warnings, have an estimated preliminary value of around Rs. 2 crore. The exact valuation is currently underway. The Delhi Customs Preventive has initiated the case on the grounds of suspected illegal import, storage, and supply of these foreign-origin cigarettes, potentially evading Customs duty.

Preliminary scrutiny indicates a violation of the Customs Act, 1962, and the Cigarettes & other Tobacco Products (Packaging & labelling) Amendment Rules, 2022. The absence of statutory health warnings on the packets raises concerns about their legality in the domestic market.

The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the entire supply chain involved in the illegal import and distribution of these cigarettes. Suppliers, dealers, and other stakeholders are under scrutiny, and further actions will be taken as the investigation progresses. Delhi Customs Preventive is committed to curbing illegal activities and ensuring compliance with customs and health regulations related to tobacco products.