Authorities in Argentina and Ecuador seize large quantities of contraband cigarettes

Law enforcement agencies in Argentina and Ecuador have conducted significant operations targeting the smuggling of foreign cigarettes.

In Neuquén, Argentina, the National Gendarmerie seized 77,795 bundles of foreign cigarettes during a patrol in a rural area near provincial routes 23 and 13. The operation resulted in the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of four vehicles, seven mobile phones, and two satellite antennas. The total estimated value of the confiscated goods is 230,110,000 pesos.

In Pelileo, Ecuador, the National Customs Service (SENAE) raided a residence used as a storage center, seizing 1.68 million cigarettes of the Carnival and Elephant brands. The seized merchandise is valued at approximately $420,000. According to SENAE, more than 16 million cigarettes have been confiscated in Ecuador during 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal imports and protect legal commerce.