Revenue seize illegal cigarettes in Mayo search operation

REVENUE have seized a quantity of illegal cigarettes and cash during a search of a property in Mayo.

As part of an intelligence led operation, Revenue officers, with the assistance of detector dog Wilson, seized approximately 8,100 cigarettes and a small quantity of ‘roll your own’ tobacco on Thursday last. Cash totalling €2,320 was also seized.

The illegal cigarettes, of various brands, had an estimated retail value of more than €6,100, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of approximately €4,800.

They were discovered during a search, under warrant, of a premises in Mayo.

A man in his 50s was questioned.

Revenue officers were granted a three-month cash detention order in respect of the cash seized at Castlebar District Court on Friday.

The seizure was part of Revenue’s ongoing operations targeting the shadow economy and the supply of illegal tobacco products.

If businesses or members of the public have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on the confidential free phone number 1800 295 295.