Customs Seizes Over 8.5 Million Cigarettes Smuggled by Sea

Maldives Customs Service has seized more than 8.5 million cigarettes allegedly smuggled into the Maldives by sea during a special operation at Malé Commercial Harbour.

According to Customs, the seizure was made on September 27, 2026, when officers inspected a shipment declared as “General Cargo.” During the inspection, Customs officers discovered a large quantity of cigarettes concealed within the consignment.

A total of 8,527,480 cigarette sticks were recovered and taken into Customs custody.

The seizure represents one of the latest major interceptions by Customs in efforts to prevent the illegal importation of tobacco products and other prohibited or undeclared goods through the country’s ports.

Customs said the case is currently under further investigation and that necessary legal action is being taken against those involved.

The Maldives Customs Service regularly conducts inspections of incoming sea cargo at Malé Commercial Harbour as part of efforts to detect smuggling and ensure compliance with the country’s import regulations.