Greece: Massive cigarette smuggling ring dismantled by AADE

Inspectors from the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) have dismantled an organized cigarette smuggling operation in Greece, seizing 7.4 million cigarettes of known commercial brands. This represents the largest quantity of smuggled cigarettes ever discovered within the country.

Following intelligence gathered from AADE information systems, coordinated inspections were carried out at various locations, including car dealerships, gate manufacturing facilities, and other storage spaces. The contraband was found packed in wooden crates prepared for immediate distribution. To evade detection by X-ray scanners, the crates had been reinforced with metal rods.

The operation also resulted in the seizure of a heavy-duty tractor with falsified characteristics and fake license plates, a private passenger vehicle, a motorcycle, and a forklift. Authorities estimate the evaded duties and taxes exceed €1.4 million. Four individuals have been arrested and referred to the prosecutor, and investigations are ongoing to identify further members of the network.