Independent Authority for State Proceeds (AADE): Cigarette smuggling case (pics)

One of the biggest cases of cigarette smuggling in Europe has been brought to light by AADE and the Piraeus Customs office.

Thirty-five containers containing 338 million contraband cigarettes were seized with a total value of € 72 million in customs duties.

The mastermind of the multinational circuit is Syrian and as stated by the Commander of AADE, George Pitsilis and the General Manager of Piraeus Customs Mr. Mourtidis, the circuit transported the smuggled cigarettes from Dubai to Syria, from where they would then be sent to other countries.

The smuggled cigarettes arrived in Piraeus in containers with the shipping documents stating that they contained food items and preparations.

The investigation started in February when the information reached the customs authorities about 4 suspicious containers from Dubai and which were seized.

This was followed by other shipments with different recipients, but which had the same phone number and address.

The Greek customs authorities cooperated with European authorities as Syros is wanted and controlled by other countries.

Investigations are ongoing.