JUNE 24: In a significant blow to the illegal tobacco trade, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized over 92 lakh sticks of foreign-origin cigarettes, valued at approximately ₹18.2 crore, in Chennai. The operation, conducted on June 23, 2025, reflects DRI’s continued efforts to combat large-scale smuggling operations.
The seizure followed specific intelligence that a container arriving from Dubai and bound for J-Matadee Free Trade and Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) was misdeclared. It was reported to contain “bathroom and sanitary fittings,” but upon detailed inspection by the Chennai Zonal Unit, the container was found to be filled with foreign-branded cigarettes.
Among the brands uncovered were ‘Manchester United Kingdom’, ‘Manchester United Kingdom Special Edition’, and ‘Mac Ice Superslims Cool Blast’. The total number of cigarette sticks recovered stood at 92.1 lakh. These cigarettes were concealed in violation of import regulations and failed to comply with Indian statutory packaging and labeling norms under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. Specifically, they lacked mandatory health warnings and other legal requirements for tobacco products sold in India.
The seized goods have been confiscated under the Customs Act, 1962, and further investigations are currently underway to identify the perpetrators and uncover the smuggling network.
This operation adds to a growing list of successful DRI interventions in Chennai. Over the past year alone, the agency has seized more than 4.4 crore sticks of smuggled and counterfeit cigarettes through Chennai ports, with the total value of those consignments estimated at ₹79.67 crore. These recurring interceptions highlight the increasing attempts to illegally push foreign tobacco products into the Indian market, often circumventing tax obligations and legal safety regulations.
The DRI reiterated its commitment to curb illicit trade activities that not only harm legitimate businesses but also pose significant health and economic risks to the public. With heightened surveillance and improved intelligence gathering, such crackdowns are expected to continue aggressively across Indian ports.
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