A 43-year-old businessman from Marawila was arrested at Bandaranaike International Airport while attempting to bring in undeclared cigarettes valued at approximately Rs. 4.65 million.
Customs officials at Bandaranaike International Airport apprehended a businessman on Wednesday after discovering a large quantity of foreign cigarettes concealed in his luggage. The 43-year-old suspect, a resident of Marawila in Chilaw, arrived on an Emirates flight from Dubai and allegedly attempted to pass through the Green Channel, which is reserved for passengers carrying no dutiable goods.
Upon examination of the traveler's two bags, airport authorities uncovered 155 cartons containing approximately 31,000 cigarette sticks valued at around Rs. 4.65 million. The cigarettes had been deliberately hidden among the passenger's belongings. The discovery was made around 10:00 a.m. when the individual arrived on Emirates flight EK-650.
The suspect has been taken into custody by Airport Customs officials, who are continuing their investigation into the matter. The case represents an ongoing concern regarding contraband tobacco products entering the country through international ports of entry.
