Patna: Customs officers from the Motihari Division, under the Customs Commissionerate Patna, seized cigarettes that were later confirmed to be counterfeit. Acting on secret information, officers confiscated 95,000 Gold Flake cigarette sticks (9,500 packets) packed in four plastic bags from the roof of a passenger bus near Nakarderi, Adapur Raxaul Road, on 28th September 2024. The estimated value of the cigarettes is ₹9 lakh.
The Customs Division Motihari received intelligence indicating that cigarettes manufactured in India were being exported without valid documentation. In response, the officers launched a thorough investigation campaign. During the operation, they discovered 95,000 cigarette sticks stored in plastic bags on the roof of the bus. When questioned, no individual claimed ownership of the cigarettes, making it clear that the goods were being exported illegally without any documents. Consequently, the cigarettes were seized by the customs officers. The seized products were marked as “Make in ITC.” However, upon further investigation, it was determined that the cigarettes were fake.
In recent times, the Customs (Prevention) Commissionerate Patna has intensified its campaign against smuggling, resulting in the seizure of various contraband items. This particular action was carried out by the Customs Division Motihari under the direction of Dr Yashovardhan Pathak, Commissioner of Customs (Prevention), Patna. Dr Pathak stated that the anti-smuggling campaign would continue with greater vigour, and strict action would be taken against those involved, as per the provisions of the Customs Act.
Additionally, the Commissioner expressed the need for improved coordination and cooperation with other departments, such as the Railway Police Force, the Police Department, and other government organisations, as well as informers, to curb illegal activities. He also mentioned that the Customs Act provides incentives to officers of these departments and informers who assist in the anti-smuggling campaign.
-PIB
