Counterfeit Cigarettes Seized in Kaliakair Raid

Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate (CIID) officials, with assistance from members of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB)-1, have seized counterfeit cigarettes, processed tobacco and acetate tow during a raid in Kaliakair of Gazipur over allegations of illegal cigarette production.

The seized cigarettes were found bearing the brand names Lucky Strike, Derby and Royals, which authorities suspect to be counterfeit. A quantity of processed tobacco and acetate tow, a key raw material used in cigarette manufacturing, was also recovered during the operation.

Significantly, none of the seized cigarette packets reportedly carried the required government revenue stamps or bandrolls. The absence of such markings has prompted authorities to investigate whether the cigarettes were manufactured and marketed illegally, potentially causing substantial loss of government revenue.

Earlier allegations against Shams Tobacco

According to CIID sources, allegations had previously surfaced against Shams Tobacco, located in the Panchgachhi area of Kaliakair upazila, over the alleged production and marketing of cigarettes without bandrolls or with counterfeit bandrolls.

However, authorities have not yet established any direct link between Shams Tobacco and the counterfeit cigarettes, processed tobacco or acetate tow recovered in the latest operation.

The CIID is continuing its investigation before reaching any conclusion regarding the involvement of the company or any individual associated with it.

Supply chain under scrutiny

Investigators are examining the source of the seized products, their manufacturing and storage locations, the source of the raw materials and the distribution network through which the products may have entered the market.

They are also looking into the possible involvement of individuals or businesses in procuring raw materials, manufacturing, transporting and marketing the products, as well as the possible extent of revenue evasion.

The absence of revenue stamps and bandrolls on the seized cigarette packets has been given particular importance in the investigation, officials said.

The CIID said legal action would be taken against any individual or entity if evidence of involvement in illegal cigarette production, counterfeit products or revenue evasion is established.

The authorities, however, have not made any final determination regarding the involvement of Shams Tobacco or any other specific individual or organisation in connection with the seized products as the investigation remains ongoing.

Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate (CIID), National Board of Revenue (NBR)