DRI seized 53.64 Lakh Foreign Cigarettes worth Rs.8 Crore in Mumbai; Mastermind and his Associate Arrested

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Officials have seized 53.64 lakh cigarette sticks of foreign brand worth Rs.8.04 crore in Mumbai and arrested two persons, including the mastermind of the smuggling syndicate.

Based on intelligence leads, DRI investigators conducted coordinated raids across various locations linked to a suspected syndicate engaged in the illicit trade of cigarettes and contraband,” stated an official from the DRI Mumbai Zonal Unit. This operation led to the confiscation of 53.64 lakh foreign-branded cigarette sticks, estimated at Rs.8.04 crore.

The leader of the group and his associate were arrested under the provisions of the Customs Act, of 1992, the officials said.

In its constant effort, DRI played an essential role in curbing illegal activities of smuggling in India. This recent bust of cigarette syndicates is part of the DRI’s continuing attempts to knock down syndicates involved in such illegal trade.