Smuggling Compartments Found in Car Stopped in Dieveniškės Loop

Lithuanian border guards found 1,000 packs of Belarusian cigarettes concealed in specially built compartments inside a Volkswagen Golf stopped near the Dieveniškės Loop.

Officers from the Gintaras Žagunis border checkpoint stopped the car on the Dieveniškės to Šalčininkai road near Širviai village in Šalčininkai district. A 30-year-old local woman was driving. After officers suspected that the vehicle carried an illegal load, they took it to the checkpoint for a detailed inspection.

The cigarettes, NZ Gold packs bearing Belarusian tax stamps, had been hidden in various parts of the passenger cabin and luggage compartment. Their value, including all taxes payable in Lithuania, was estimated at €5,510.

Authorities opened administrative proceedings against the driver for transporting excise goods in violation of the established procedure. She faces a fine ranging from €5,200 to €6,000 and confiscation of the Volkswagen Golf. She has been summoned to appear at the border checkpoint in two weeks, where her case will be examined. The cigarettes and vehicle remain in temporary custody.