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The General Customs of the Republic thwarted a smuggling attempt of over 4,500 counterfeit cigars at Havana International Airport.
Wiliam Pérez González, the first deputy chief of the institution, reported on X that the cigars were in boxes and packaging of recognized brands, in the possession of two passengers who intended to take them out of the country.
After verifying that it was counterfeit merchandise, the police were notified and the investigation has been expanded.
Pérez accompanied the public complaint with images of the seized cigars, as well as dozens of labels or rings ready to be placed on the items, highlighting the extent of the fraud.
The incident occurred less than a month after Customs intercepted another smuggling attempt at the same airport, when two travelers attempted to leave the country with 4,400 undeclared cigars.
Pérez reported on the social media platform X that the agents detected the goods while attempting to bypass customs control, although he did not specify the number of individuals who tried to smuggle that volume of tobacco.
Similarly, the regime official did not specify in the brief note whether the cigars were authentic, although they were likely counterfeits that, nonetheless, sell well outside of Cuba.
According to the explanation provided, smuggling in this area generates significant profits in the illegal market, which led to a report being made to the Revolutionary National Police (PNR).
Frequently asked questions about tobacco smuggling and customs security in Cuba
How many counterfeit cigars have they tried to smuggle out of Cuba recently?
The General Customs of the Republic of Cuba thwarted an attempt to smuggle more than 4,500 fake cigars at the international airport in Havana. The cigars were in boxes of well-known brands and were in the possession of two passengers who intended to take them out of the country.
What measures is the Cuban Customs taking to prevent smuggling?
The Customs of Cuba is maintaining active control measures at the airports to combat illegal operations and protect the country's resources. This includes the detection of undeclared goods and collaboration with the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) to process smuggling cases.
Why is the smuggling of counterfeit cigars profitable?
The smuggling of counterfeit tobacco generates significant profits in the illegal market outside of Cuba. Although these are counterfeits, these products sell well abroad, prompting smugglers to attempt to circumvent customs controls.
What other types of smuggling have been detected by Cuban Customs?
The Customs of Cuba has detected attempts to smuggle drugs, gold, and undeclared money at the Havana airport. These incidents include the concealment of cocaine in hygiene products and food, gold bars in luggage, and large amounts of cash hidden in false bottoms of suitcases.
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