Two Chinese nationals arrested with stock of foreign cigarettes at BIA

Two Chinese nationals were detained at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake after being intercepted with an undeclared consignment of foreign cigarettes.

Customs officers stationed at the arrival terminal detected the contraband concealed inside several traveling bags during routine screening of passengers arriving on an overseas flight.

The commercial import of foreign tobacco products without statutory health warnings and tax clearance is illegal under Sri Lankan customs and excise regulations. The seized cigarettes are estimated to carry a high duty value.

Customs authorities impounded the entire stock and initiated inquiry proceedings against the two foreign passengers, who face substantial fiscal penalties and deportation procedures.