Thousands of illicit cigarettes seized in Waterford during Revenue searches

Thousands of illicit cigarettes were seized during Revenue searches in Waterford in recent days.

Revenue says the detections and seizures were made as a result of risk profiling and intelligence-led operations.

While the specific details and locations have not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that over 19,700 cigarettes, with a value of approximately €17,800 and representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of €12,000 were seized in separate operations in Waterford, Kilkenny and the Midlands.

Almost 2kg of rolling tobacco, with a value of €1,715 and representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of €1,200, were also seized.

According to Revenue, the cigarettes and tobacco seized were of various brands, including Marlboro Gold, Chesterfield red, Chesterfield blue, Chesterfield Blue Slim, Pall Mall Blue, Camel, Amber Leaf and West Red.

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It says the seizures are part of its ongoing operations targeting smuggling and shadow economy activity in Waterford and across the country.

"If businesses, or members of the public, have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295," said a spokesperson who added that investigations are ongoing.

Separately, Revenue says there were a number of other seizures of contraband, worth around €550,000, across the country over the past week.

This includes quantities of cocaine and cannabis, nearly 400 counterfeit items, more than 164 litres of alcohol and a variety of weapons including a samurai sword, tactical gauntlets with throwing knives and smoke generators.