Chinese-Made Cigarettes Seized at Colombo Airport; Authorities Probe Smuggling Routesk
Colombo (Economy India): Sri Lankan authorities have arrested two Indian nationals at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) after seizing more than 50,000 Chinese-made cigarettes allegedly smuggled into the country. The confiscated contraband is valued at approximately LKR 7.98 million, according to police officials.
The arrests were made on Saturday during routine inspections at the airport’s arrival terminal by law enforcement agencies.
Contraband Discovered During Airport Inspection
According to the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB), the two suspects, both 26 years old, were found carrying a large quantity of undeclared Chinese-manufactured cigarettes concealed in their luggage.
Officials said the seizure is part of Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal tobacco imports and cross-border smuggling.
Travel Route Under Investigation
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had:
- Purchased the cigarettes in Cambodia.
- Travelled via Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Arrived in Sri Lanka before being intercepted by customs and police authorities.
Investigators are examining whether the duo was part of a larger international smuggling network operating across Southeast Asia.
Authorities Intensify Anti-Smuggling Drive
Sri Lankan authorities have stepped up surveillance at international airports in recent months to combat illegal imports of tobacco products, narcotics, gold, and other contraband.
Smuggling of cigarettes results in significant tax revenue losses and violates customs and excise regulations.
Further investigations are underway to determine the intended destination of the seized cigarettes and identify any additional individuals linked to the operation.
The arrested individuals remain in custody as authorities continue questioning them. The Police Narcotics Bureau and customs officials are expected to investigate possible international connections behind the attempted smuggling operation.
(Economy India)
