Five Israelis Arrested in Cyprus for Cigarette Smuggling Attempt
Five Israeli citizens and a 49-year-old Israeli taxi driver were detained for questioning in Greek Cyprus on suspicion of attempting to smuggle approximately 50 cartons containing several hundred packs of American-brand cigarettes from the Turkish side of the island. The cigarettes, found in suitcases in the taxi, lacked warning labels in Greek or Turkish, according to the Israeli news site Mako. Cypriot law enforcement, customs, and police estimate the suspects purchased the cigarettes at a very low price in Turkish Cyprus with the intention of making tens of thousands of shekels upon their successful smuggling into Israel.
To avoid arrest and court proceedings, the five Israelis agreed to pay a fine of 4,000 euros, while the taxi driver paid 600 euros. Following the payment of the fines, all individuals involved were released. The hundreds of cigarette packs were confiscated and will be destroyed by the authorities.
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