Malang Customs Seizes 977,200 Illegal Cigarettes

Customs officials in Malang, Indonesia, have successfully intercepted a large shipment of illegal cigarettes, seizing 977,200 sticks of the ESS and Marbol brands. The operation, conducted early on Saturday, June 20, 2026, aimed to curb the distribution of untaxed tobacco products outside the Malang region. The successful seizure is estimated to have saved the state potential revenue of approximately Rp 724 million.

The operation began after customs received intelligence about a vehicle suspected of transporting illegal excisable goods. Acting on this information, the Malang Customs team intensified patrols and surveillance along known routes for illegal cigarette distribution, particularly in the border areas of Malang Regency. Their vigilance paid off when they stopped a white microbus traveling from Kepanjen towards Pagak District.

An inspection of the vehicle revealed a significant quantity of machine-rolled kretek cigarettes (SKM) and white cigarettes (SPM) from various brands, including ESS and Marbol, which lacked the required tax stamps. In total, officers secured 49,000 packs, amounting to 977,200 individual cigarettes. The driver, the vehicle, and the entire confiscated cargo were taken to the Malang Customs Office for further investigation. The total estimated value of the seized goods is Rp 1.45 billion.

Head of Malang Customs, Johan Pandores, stated that the agency is committed to strengthening its oversight of illegal excisable goods through intelligence gathering, field patrols, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies and local governments. He also appealed to the public to actively participate in eradicating illegal cigarette circulation by refraining from purchasing, selling, or distributing them. Pandores emphasized that public support is crucial for fostering a healthy business environment and safeguarding state revenue from the tobacco excise sector.