Batam Customs successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle 184,000 illegal cigarettes to Tembilahan, Riau. The High-Speed Craft was intercepted in the waters of Pulau Buaya, Batam, and seven crew members were detained. The operation took place on Friday (3/5), following intelligence about illegal goods being shipped from Barelang Bridge 6.

Batam Customs intercepted a speedboat carrying 184,000 illegal cigarettes in Pulau Buaya waters, Kepulauan Riau (Kepri), on Friday (3/5/2024). Acting on intelligence received the previous day, Customs officers coordinated a swift operation to secure the vessel and apprehend seven crew members.

Batam Customs secured a High-Speed Craft transporting 184,000 illegal cigarettes without excise stamps, following intelligence received on Thursday (2/5/2024).

The patrol team, aided by Vessel BC11001, apprehended the speedboat and seven crew members at 11 p.m. local time.

The ship and crew were taken to Tanjung Uncang Customs dock, where officers found 184,000 illegal cigarettes in violation of Customs Law No. 17 of 2006 and Excise Law No. 39 of 2007.

Batam Customs reported seizing 1.2 million illegal cigarettes in 2022, with an estimated value of SGD 201,600 (Rp 2.4 billion).

Read More: Batam’s Battle Against Illicit Drug Trafficking Through “Rat Ports”

Evi Octavia urged the public to report any suspicious activities to help authorities combat smuggling effectively.

Batam’s rigorous Customs enforcement ensures a safer environment for everyone. Their proactive stance against smuggling underscores their commitment to regional security and trade integrity.

Batam Customs intercepted a speedboat smuggling 184,000 illegal cigarettes in Pulau Buaya waters, seizing seven crew members. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal cigarette smuggling in the region.

Source: Detik.com, Tribun News (2024)