Over €600k contraband seized at eight Westmeath premises

A joint operation yesterday (Sunday) at eight premises in Westmeath resulted in the seizure of over 413,000 cigarettes, over 230 kg of tobacco, 82 litres of alcohol and €21,133 in cash.

The illicit products have an estimated value of over €607,000, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of approximately €467,000.

The operation involved Revenue officers, supported by colleagues from An Garda Síochána. The seizures were made following searches, under warrant, of eight premises in Co. Westmeath.

Three men, two aged in their 30s and one aged in his 70’s were questioned, and investigations are ongoing.

The tobacco products were branded Marlboro Gold, Omega, Excellence, Winston Blue, Lambert & Butler, Chesterfield, Richmond, Mayfair, Rothmans, JPS Blue, Superkings, Bruts, Amber Leaf and Golden Virginia. The alcohol consisted of Smirnoff and Nikita vodka.

These seizures are part of Revenue’s ongoing operations targeting the shadow economy and the supply of illegal tobacco products. If businesses or members of the public have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on the confidential free phone number 1800 295 295.