Authorities in Larnaca seize contraband tobacco and arrest suspect

On November 6, 2026, around 5:20 p.m., police in the Larnaca district intercepted a pickup truck during a coordinated operation. The vehicle, which reportedly featured Turkish Cypriot license plates, was driven by a 30-year-old Turkish Cypriot man who was arrested at the scene for the illicit transport of goods.

Following a search of the vehicle, authorities discovered a large quantity of illegal tobacco products. According to the Customs Department, the haul included 200 cartons of cigarettes (totaling 2,000 packs) and 54 kilograms of rolling tobacco (equivalent to 1,080 packs of 50 grams each). These products lacked the legally required markings and traceability codes. While reports regarding the specific number of cigarettes vary, with one source mentioning over 3,000 packs while official police data specifies 2,000 packs, the discrepancy appears to stem from differing methods of calculation.

The suspect has been detained, and his vehicle has been impounded. The case is currently under investigation by the Customs Department to uncover the potential smuggling network involved. The suspect was transported to the Pera Chorio Nisou police station for further processing.