Indonesia Customs Seizes Over 550,000 Illegal Cigarettes in Pekalongan Operation

Authorities in Central Java have seized a significant quantity of illegal cigarettes as part of a coordinated effort to combat untaxed tobacco products. The joint operation, dubbed "Operation Smoke 2026," involved the Customs and Excise Office for Central Java and Yogyakarta Special Region, working alongside the Civil Service Police.

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The circulation of illegal cigarettes is a serious violation that not only results in the loss of potential state revenue from the excise sector but also creates unhealthy business competition for business actors who have complied with legal provisions.

During the operation on Monday, officers inspected several shops and buildings in Pekalongan Regency, Central Java, based on risk analysis and intelligence. They discovered 553,100 cigarettes of various brands, including machine-rolled kretek and white cigarettes, that lacked the required excise tax stamps. These were found in 261 packs and 2,760 cartons.

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Therefore, Customs will continue to strengthen supervision and take firm action against all forms of violations in accordance with applicable laws.

The total estimated value of the confiscated illegal cigarettes amounts to Rp 827,015,900. Furthermore, the operation prevented a potential loss of Rp 416,010,040 in state revenue from unpaid excise taxes. The seized items have been secured for further investigation and processing according to customs regulations.

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Cigarettes without excise stamps are illegal excisable goods whose circulation is prohibited by legal provisions. Therefore, Customs urges the public and business actors to only trade cigarettes that have met the excise provisions. We also hope the public can play an active role by reporting if they find indications of illegal cigarette circulation in their surroundings.