In a major breakthrough, DRI Ahmedabad Zonal Unit has seized a container load of foreign cigarettes concealed in a consignment declared as readymade garments. 80.1 lakh cigarette sticks were recovered having an estimated market value of Rs 16 crores.

Based on specific intelligence developed, officers of DRI Ahmedabad intercepted an import container shipped from Phnom Penh port of Cambodia at Mundra port. The consignment was declared as "Readymade Garments" and was destined for Hazira Port.

During the detailed examination of the said consignment, officers noticed that the 1st row packages in the container were of declared goods i.e.  " Readymade Garments ". However, behind the said 1st row, all the packages were containing foreign origin Cigarettes "Gold Flake". Accordingly total 80.1 lakhs of these sticks were seized under Panchanama proceedings. The value of the seized cigarettes is estimated to be around Rs. 16 crores.

It was also observed that the seized cigarette's packets were having marking of “Made in India”. Officers in contact with field experts to identify possibility of attempt to import counterfeit cigarettes or likewise. Further investigation is under progress.

Two months back, in similar operation, DRI officers seized 36 lakhs foreign origin cigarettes which were attempted to be smuggled at Mundra Port. The seizure shows DRI’s commitment towards its anti-smuggling mandate and will have a significant blow to the smuggling syndicates.  

CB/GP/JD

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