How smugglers are trying to sneak cigarettes into the country
Customs officers are intercepting growing volumes of illicit tobacco arriving in freight, mail and passenger luggage.
Jack Horsnell··2 min read
How smugglers are trying to sneak cigarettes into the country
Customs officers are intercepting growing volumes of illicit tobacco arriving in freight, mail and passenger luggage.
High excise rates have created a lucrative black market, with organised groups concealing cigarettes in commercial consignments and false compartments.
Enforcement staff described detection methods including x-ray screening, detector dogs and intelligence sharing with overseas agencies.
Officials say the trade undermines both tax revenue and smokefree goals, and warn of steep penalties for those caught.
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