A large quantity of untaxed tobacco products was discovered in Nicosia during a police operation on Friday, prompting swift action from customs officials.

Members of the Nicosia crime prevention unit searched a property under a court warrant and uncovered hundreds of boxes containing cigarettes and other tobacco products. The department of customs was immediately called to the scene to carry out a formal count and confiscate the items.

Authorities seized 287 boxes of 200 cigarettes each, 102 boxes of heated tobacco sticks, and rolling tobacco weighing a total of 14.75 kilograms. None of the products carried the required health warnings in Greek and Turkish, indicating that they were smuggled and untaxed.

The suspect was arrested on the spot. Police then carried out a second search at his home, this time with his written consent. More contraband was found, including 182 boxes of 200 cigarettes, 108 boxes of heated tobacco, and additional rolling tobacco totalling 6.6kgs. The suspect’s vehicle, believed to have been used to transport the illegal goods, was also seized.

Later the same day, the suspect was released after agreeing to an out-of-court settlement. He paid €44,500 to settle the case, while his vehicle was returned upon payment of a further €500. Authorities say investigations into the origin of the products are ongoing.