The General Customs of the Republic intercepted an illegal attempt to smuggle more than 3,800 cigars out of the country, intended for transport to Panama via Havana's José Martí International Airport.
Wiliam Pérez González, the first deputy chief of Cuban Customs, stated that the goods were confiscated and the incident reported to the police as part of ongoing efforts to combat the illegal trade of this valuable export commodity.
Addressing these types of operations is a top priority for customs authorities, Pérez González emphasized, citing the economic value of cigars and their frequent connection to contraband networks that operate from the nation's departure points.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another case where the General Customs of the Republic uncovered an attempt to illegally export over 4,000 labels of Cuban tobacco brands, which had been hidden inside several books.
During a routine check at Havana's international airport, these labels were discovered in the possession of a traveler attempting to covertly remove them from the country. The labels were seized and the matter reported to the police.
This adds to a series of recent interceptions at the Havana airport, including the detection of a drug trafficking operation where methamphetamine was found concealed in a passenger's luggage, amidst heightened scrutiny of international flights.
Customs Interceptions and Smuggling Prevention in Cuba
Why is cigar smuggling a significant issue for Cuban customs?
Cigars hold substantial economic value and are often linked to contraband networks, making their illegal export a major concern for customs authorities.
What actions are taken when illegal exports are detected?
When illegal exports are detected, the goods are confiscated, and the incidents are reported to the police for further investigation and action against the involved parties.
What other types of smuggling have been intercepted at Havana's airport?
Apart from cigar smuggling, customs at Havana's airport have intercepted drug trafficking operations, such as a case involving methamphetamine hidden in a passenger's luggage.