Customs authorities seize large quantities of untaxed cigarettes at Cyprus airports

Cypriot customs authorities recently intercepted significant quantities of untaxed tobacco products at the Larnaca and Paphos international airports. Between September 24 and September 27, 2026, multiple individuals were arrested for attempting to smuggle cigarettes without the required safety markings, Greek and Turkish health warnings, or traceability codes.

At Larnaca airport on September 24, officials discovered 180 cartons of cigarettes in the luggage of one traveler bound for Manchester, and approximately 10 cartons in the luggage of another passenger traveling to London. The first individual was remanded in custody for three days by the Larnaca District Court, while the second passenger was released after paying a 600-euro out-of-court settlement. Subsequently, on September 27, two 35-year-old British nationals were arrested at Paphos airport while en route to Liverpool with 210 cartons of untaxed cigarettes in their possession.

The suspects were detained for immediate trial proceedings. While the individuals apprehended in Paphos were scheduled to appear before the Paphos District Court on September 28, the investigation into the seized goods continues, with all confiscated items subject to formal customs procedures.