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๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ Indonesia /Crime & Justice

150,000 Illegal Cigarettes Seized in Majalengka, Costing the State Hundreds of Millions of Rupiah

From Republika · (5m ago) Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Authorities in Majalengka, Indonesia, seized approximately 150,000 illegal cigarettes in a recent operation.
  • The operation targeted the distribution of untaxed tobacco products in the northern sub-districts of Majalengka.
  • The seizure is estimated to have prevented a state revenue loss of around Rp 111.9 million.

The recent operation by the Majalengka Regency's illegal cigarette eradication team, conducted under the framework of the Tobacco Product Excise Revenue Sharing Fund (DBHCHT), has successfully intercepted a significant quantity of illicit goods. The seizure of around 150,000 batang (sticks) of illegal cigarettes in the northern sub-districts is a clear indicator that the trade in untaxed tobacco products remains a persistent issue requiring diligent enforcement.

This operation, involving a joint task force including the Civil Service Police Unit, the Prosecutor's Office, Customs and Excise, and the Military, underscores the collaborative effort needed to combat this economic crime. Yan Indra Sovhia, Head of Law Enforcement at the Majalengka Civil Service Police and Fire Department, emphasized that this action is a tangible step in curbing the circulation of illegal cigarettes, highlighting the need for serious intervention.

The estimated state revenue loss prevented by this seizure, amounting to approximately Rp 111.9 million, is a stark reminder of the financial impact of illegal trade. Beyond the direct financial loss, the proliferation of untaxed cigarettes undermines legitimate businesses and distorts the market. Therefore, continuous and periodic operations, coupled with public education campaigns, are crucial.

From our perspective at Republika, this story highlights the government's ongoing commitment to protecting state revenue and ensuring a fair business environment. We believe in the importance of public cooperation in reporting illegal activities. The appeal to the public to remain vigilant and report the circulation of illegal cigarettes is vital for supporting national revenue collection and fostering a healthier economic climate. This is not just about confiscating cigarettes; it's about upholding the integrity of our economic system.

In the operation carried out in the northern region, we managed to secure around 150,000 sticks of illegal cigarettes from various points of sale. This is proof that the circulation of illegal cigarettes still exists and needs serious handling.

โ€” Yan Indra SovhiaYan Indra Sovhia, Head of Law Enforcement at the Majalengka Civil Service Police and Fire Department, explains the significance of the seizure.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.