Nicosia police seize illicit tobacco products and issue fine

On September 16 and 17, 2026, members of the Nicosia Crime Prevention Unit conducted an operation targeting the illegal trade of tobacco products. During this operation, a 40-year-old man was intercepted while driving in the Engomi area. A subsequent search of his vehicle resulted in the seizure of 396 boxes of tobacco products, consisting of 301 boxes of heated tobacco and 95 cartons of cigarettes. Additionally, authorities confiscated €2,400 in cash and two mobile phones found in his possession.

The operation was initiated following intelligence regarding the illegal possession, distribution, and sale of untaxed tobacco, as well as fraudulent VAT evasion. Upon confirming the items were untaxed, the individual was arrested and taken to the Nicosia Customs Department. Customs officials subsequently seized the vehicle and issued the man an out-of-court settlement notice amounting to €20,000 for the possession of duty-free products. The suspect remains subject to the administrative penalties imposed by the customs authorities.