Customs officials have managed to seize a container containing foreign cigarettes worth Rs 792 million, which was attempted to be smuggled into Sri Lanka by evading authorities.

The detection was carried out by the Central Investigation Directorate of Sri Lanka Customs.

Key Highlights
  • Container of foreign cigarettes valued at Rs 792 million seized
  • Sent from India under forged documents declaring photocopy paper
  • One suspect arrested over the incident

Smuggling under the guise of paper

Investigations revealed that the consignment was dispatched from India using forged documentation declaring the goods as paper and photocopy paper.

Upon examination, officers took into custody 457 cartons of foreign cigarettes found inside the container.

Attempt to route through Kandana

It has come to light that the suspects attempted to import this foreign cigarette shipment to a bogus company address in the Kandana area.

One suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.