The British Bases “handed out” €11,000 in fines at border crossings.
The British Bases’ Customs and Immigration Department confirmed the seizure of 17,500 cigarettes, 21 kilograms of tobacco for hand-rolled cigarettes, and 5,500 e-cigarettes since early July.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Data shows that 115,000 vehicles have used the border crossings since July 1, a fact that has led to a large number of successful seizures by the 50 Customs staff members conducting inspections 24 hours a day.
At the same time, fines totaling 11,000 euros have been issued, while two major seizures were detected at the Pergamos border crossing.
The first incident occurred on July 4, according to Katerina Christofi, Senior Officer of Customs and Immigration for the Eastern Sovereign Base Areas (ESBA), who stated: “This significant seizure involved two passengers traveling in separate taxis, which arrived one after the other.”
“Customs officers suspected that these individuals were traveling together but had chosen different vehicles in an attempt to avoid detection.
“The first passenger was found to be in possession of 13.1 kilograms of tobacco for hand-rolled cigarettes, while the second was carrying 5.65 kilograms. The total fines imposed amounted to 6,300 euros.”
On August 4, 2,400 cigarettes, 500 grams of tobacco for hand-rolled cigarettes, and 600 e-cigarettes hidden inside the convertible roof of a convertible vehicle, which resulted in a fine of 1,680 euros.
Speaking from her office in Dekelia, Ms. Christofi added: “Customs personnel are on the front lines 24 hours a day at both border crossings, detecting contraband and imposing strict fines on violators.
“Due to the increased traffic during the peak summer season, it is essential that our staff remain vigilant in enforcing regulations, and any violation will be dealt with without any leniency.”
Source: CNA
