Shell companies used to conceal cigarette smuggling network
Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) has uncovered a cigarette smuggling operation involving shell companies allegedly used to disguise the network’s activities.
Investigators seized 7.3 million cigarettes in Aspropyrgos earlier this week and searched two warehouses in Ano Liosia and Tanagra as part of the crackdown.
Four people were arrested in connection with the case, while two other suspects have been identified but remain at large. The detained individuals have been described as low-ranking tobacco workers. None was remanded in custody after appearing before the authorities, while the alleged ringleaders have not been apprehended.
Cigarettes concealed in metal-lined crates
The seized cigarettes included Winston, Davidoff and Marlboro brands.
According to the investigation, the products were concealed in wooden crates lined with metal, a method apparently intended to prevent detection by X-ray scanners.
The packaging has raised suspicions that the cigarettes were being prepared for transportation by road, potentially for export to another European Union country. The intended destination has not been confirmed.
Warehouses suspected of becoming illegal factories
Searches of warehouses in Ano Liosia and Tanagra yielded no contraband, according to the information available.
However, sources said investigators suspect the premises were being prepared for use as illegal tobacco production facilities.
Unconfirmed reports have also linked an ethnic Greek individual to the network in an advisory capacity. The individual has not been identified as the alleged leader of the operation.
Investigation continues
Authorities are continuing their investigation to establish the network’s full structure, identify those directing its activities and determine the intended destination of the seized cigarettes.
The allegations remain subject to the ongoing investigation, and the identities and roles of the suspects have not been fully established publicly.
Source:Kathimerini
