31st July 2014
By Elaine Murphy
elaime@TheCork.ie
In an intelligence-led operation, code-named “Church”, officers from Revenue’s Customs Service, backed up by An Garda Síochána, seized 41,000 cigarettes and 27kgs of tobacco with a retail value of €32,000 and a potential loss to the Exchequer of over €25,000 on the north side of Cork city last night
The ‘MG’, ‘Golden Seagiies’, ‘Amber Leaf’ and ‘Eastenders’ brand were seized following the search of a private dwelling. A UK registered vehicle was also seized. Revenue’s sniffer dog Harvey assisted in the search.
Two males in their fifties were questioned and investigations are ongoing with a view to prosecution.
This seizure is part of Revenue’s ongoing operations targeting the supply and sale illegal cigarettes. If businesses or members of the public have any information regarding the smuggling or sale of illegal cigarettes or tobacco, they can contact Revenue in confidence on Freephone 1800 295 295.