Customs finds a significant smuggling operation in passenger baggage at the airport
Customs officials at Riga Airport discovered 382 packets of undeclared cigarettes in a passenger's baggage during a routine inspection.
Officials from the State Revenue Service's Customs Board conducted control measures at Riga Airport, where they identified 382 packets of undeclared cigarettes in the baggage of a passenger arriving on a flight from Sharm El Sheikh to Riga. Despite the passenger, an Estonian citizen, claiming through the 'green corridor' that there were no goods subject to declaration or restriction in their bag, a thorough inspection revealed a total of 7,640 cigarettes of the brands 'Golden Gate' and 'Oris'.
As officials found indications of criminal activity during the customs check, they forwarded the case materials to the Tax and Customs Police. A criminal process has been initiated under the first part of Article 190 of the Criminal Law regarding smuggling. The incident underscores the ongoing efforts of customs authorities to combat smuggling and enforce regulations at border points, reflecting the challenges faced in maintaining customs integrity at busy international airports.
This discovery not only highlights the vigilant operations of customs officials but also raises awareness about the potential consequences of smuggling activities. Such incidents can lead to severe penalties, and they remind travelers of the importance of adhering to customs regulations when traveling internationally. The involvement of the Tax and Customs Police further emphasizes the seriousness of the matter, as they specialize in investigation and enforcement against smuggling activities.