The customs seizures in Cyprus at the Agios Dometios crossing involved two separate cases recorded on 22 and 23 April 2026, according to information released by the Customs Department.
First case: animal hides uncovered
On 22 April 2026, Customs officers carried out a check on a vehicle driven by a Turkish Cypriot at the Agios Dometios crossing. During the inspection, they discovered five bags containing bovine hides with a total weight of approximately 75kg.
The individual was arrested for offences committed in flagrante. The animal products and the vehicle used for transport were seized. Later, the suspect was released after accepting an out-of-court settlement, paying a total fine of €500.
Second case: large tobacco haul detected
In a second incident on 23 April 2026, Customs officers at the same crossing inspected another vehicle driven by a Turkish Cypriot. Inside the vehicle, they found 175 cartons of 200 cigarettes each, 100 cartons of 200 heated tobacco units each, and 6kg of hookah tobacco.
The products did not carry health warnings in Greek and Turkish, indicating they were not properly taxed or declared. Authorities arrested the driver for offences committed in flagrante delicto, and both the tobacco products and the vehicle were seized.
Customs enforcement continues
The Customs Department continues inspections at crossing points to combat smuggling and ensure compliance with customs and health regulations. The recent customs seizure cases in Cyprus highlight ongoing enforcement activity at key checkpoints.
Also read: 195 deportations, 729 voluntary returns, 204 arrests in two months
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