Multi-Million Illicit Cigarette Seizures Reported Sri Lanka, Ireland, Hong Kong

In 2025, significant seizures of illicit cigarettes and tobacco products have been reported globally, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and illegal trade. Sri Lanka Customs made its largest-ever seizure at the Air Cargo Village in Katunayake, confiscating over 2.2 million foreign cigarette sticks valued at around Rs. 50 million. In Ireland, the South Frontier Management Branch seized over 460,000 cigarettes and 166 kilograms of tobacco, with nationwide seizures totaling nearly €56 million in value during the first half of the year. Hong Kong Customs intercepted multiple operations: two drug trafficking cases involving over 25 kilograms of cannabis at the airport, and a large crackdown on illicit cigarette storage centers in San Po Kong, resulting in the confiscation of approximately 650,000 illicit cigarettes and 720,000 alternative smoking products valued at HK$5.2 million. Additionally, Hong Kong marine police seized HK$13 million worth of illicit cigarettes during anti-smuggling operations, though suspects escaped by speedboats. These coordinated enforcement actions reflect intensified global measures to curb the distribution and consumption of illegal tobacco and related substances.