Prilep, 168.7 kilograms of cut tobacco without excise stamps seized

An operation carried out by customs officers from the Bitola Customs Office and mobile teams from the Department for Operational Affairs at the Green Market and the city square in Prilep led to the seizure of 168.7 kilograms of cut tobacco. Excise duty amounting to 463.787 denars had been evaded on this quantity, while police officers were also asked to assist in the operation.

During the inspections, six people were arrested on suspicion of trading tobacco without excise stamps. According to the authorities, their activity constitutes a serious violation of the law, harms the state budget and endangers citizens’ health. The relevant proceedings have been initiated against them before the competent court and the Misdemeanour Commission.

This operation is the second undertaken by the Customs Administration within a short period. During a previous inspection at the Čair market, the authorities seized 135 kilograms of cut tobacco.

The Customs Administration has announced that it will continue strengthening measures against the illegal trade in tobacco and tobacco products through stricter inspections across the country and intensified investigations into the import of these products.