Niš Man Arrested for Illegal Tobacco Sales, Budget Defrauded by 4.4 Million Dinars

Authorities in Niš, Serbia, have arrested a local man, identified as V.R. (born 1973), on suspicion of illegally trading excise products. The arrest was made by the Service for Combating Crime, within the Ministry of Internal Affairs, following an order from the Basic Public Prosecutor's Office in Niš.

Investigators suspect V.R. of orchestrating the acquisition, distribution, and storage of loose tobacco without the necessary permits. During a previous inspection of a vehicle used by an individual hired by V.R., police discovered and temporarily confiscated 534.5 kilograms of loose tobacco. This contraband was reportedly intended for further sale.

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He is suspected of organizing the procurement, sale, and storage of loose tobacco.

The Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that this illegal activity is estimated to have defrauded the state budget of approximately 4,398,320 Serbian dinars. V.R. has been transferred to the relevant prosecutor's office with a criminal complaint. A judge has ordered him to be held in custody for up to 30 days pending further investigation.

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This illegal activity is estimated to have defrauded the state budget of approximately 4,398,320 Serbian dinars.