In a recent operation at Ercan Airport in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), two individuals attempting to smuggle large quantities of cigarettes and tobacco to the UK were arrested. The suspects, UK citizens of Pakistani descent, M.H.Z. (39) and D.H.K. (31), were found in possession of a total of 119 cartons of cigarettes and 880 packets of tobacco.
During an X-ray inspection at Ercan Airport on August 17, 2026, around 12:30 PM, 59 cartons of Benson cigarettes, 5 additional packs of the same brand, and 440 units of 50-gram Amber Leaf tobacco were discovered in M.H.Z.’s suitcase. D.H.K.’s luggage contained the same amounts: 59 cartons of cigarettes and 440 packets of tobacco.
Suspects’ Statements
Police reported that the suspects stated they had purchased the cigarettes from three different shops in Northern Cyprus, whose names they did not know, citing the high prices in the UK as a reason for their purchase. They indicated that they took advantage of the lower prices found here to buy in bulk.
Authorities confirmed that the total of 119 cartons of cigarettes and 880 packets of tobacco were seized as evidence. During the investigation, it was noted that the visa status of the suspects in Northern Cyprus was checked, revealing no issues. The court set their remand period at 15 days.
Police Remarks
The police elaborated on the details of the incident, explaining that the high market prices in the UK motivated the young suspects to buy such large quantities of cigarettes. While the suspects accepted the charges at the hearing, they emphasized that the cigarettes they purchased were cheap.
Source: www.diyaloggazetesi.com
