A Chinese national has been apprehended by border control officials at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake while attempting to smuggle a commercial quantity of foreign-manufactured cigarettes into Sri Lanka.
Key Highlights
- Chinese passenger detained by Customs officers at BIA arrival terminal.
- Large consignment of foreign-manufactured cigarettes confiscated from personal luggage.
- Action taken as part of ongoing border operations against illegal tobacco smuggling.
The suspect was intercepted at the airport’s passenger clearance zone after Customs officers noticed suspicious activity during routine baggage screening. A thorough search of the traveler’s luggage led to the discovery of multiple cartons of undeclared foreign cigarettes concealed among personal belongings.
Sri Lanka Customs authorities have seized the contraband, noting that illegal tobacco imports pose significant revenue losses to the government due to bypassed duties and taxes. The suspect remains in custody while further investigations proceed under the provisions of the Customs Ordinance.