Authorities Destroy Over 132,000 Packs of Smuggled Cigarettes in Tashkent
Customs authorities in Uzbekistan recently destroyed over 132,000 packs of illicit tobacco products seized from illegal circulation. The event, which took place at a factory in Tashkent’s Yangihayot district, was attended by members of the public and organized by the State Customs Committee in collaboration with the Bureau of Compulsory Enforcement.
These confiscated tobacco products were seized as part of nine separate violations, with one case involving the interception of 76,500 packs of Milano-brand cigarettes produced abroad at the specialized customs complex “Tashkent-AERO.”
Further investigation revealed that a citizen identified as B.K. had illegally stored these smuggled cigarettes, which were brought in from neighboring countries for resale. The batch was valued at 1 billion UZS, and the individual was sentenced to 7 years and 1 month in prison.
In alignment with Uzbekistan’s “Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy,” authorities took extra precautions to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable waste disposal during the destruction process. Paper packaging was separated from the tobacco before incineration, with the cigarettes and polyethylene materials being destroyed in specialized furnaces. The paper packaging was weighed and handed over to recycling facilities for proper disposal.
This proactive approach by customs authorities reflects the country’s commitment to cracking down on illegal activities while also prioritizing environmental conservation and sustainability.
