Revenue seizes alcohol, cigarettes and vehicles in Rosslare, Dundalk and Drogheda

Today (12/04/2017), Revenue officers seized contraband cigarettes and alcohol when they searched a van that had arrived in Rosslare Europort from Cherbourg, France. Assisted by detector dog Alfie, 31,000 cigarettes, branded 'Kent', 'Marlboro', 'Vogue Slims' and 'Lucky Strike', and 107 litres of wine were discovered in concealments throughout the vehicle. The van transporting the goods was also seized. The retail value of the wine is €1,490, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of €735.

A Romanian man was arrested at the scene and remanded to a special sitting of Gorey District Court. Investigations are ongoing.

In a separate, intelligence-led operation last Thursday (06/04/17), Revenue officers carried out a number of searches of premises in the Dundalk and Drogheda areas, focusing on the illicit tobacco trade. During the searches, officers uncovered and seized almost 54kg of tobacco and 12,130 cigarettes of various brands, all of which were unstamped. Two vehicles and €13,000 cash were also seized.

The combined retail value of the tobacco products seized is €50,750, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of approximately €40,750.

This enforcement action is part of Revenue's ongoing operations targeting the shadow economy and the supply and sale of illegal tobacco products. If businesses or members of the public have any information regarding the smuggling they can contact Revenue in confidence on free phone number 1800 295 295.

[Ends:12/04/2017]