Banda Aceh Customs Thwart Illegal Cigarette Circulation, Hundreds of Thousands of Sticks Seized in Two Months

Banda Aceh Customs has secured 101,520 illegal cigarettes of various brands throughout the period from March to April 2026. The hundreds of thousands of illegal cigarettes were seized from enforcement actions at several strategic points, such as custody service areas, market operations, and oversight of excess excisable goods carried by passengers at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport.

The Head of the Banda Aceh Customs Office, Rahmat Priyandoko, revealed that these cigarettes are excisable goods that do not meet the requirements, either because they are not affixed with excise stamps or are carried exceeding the limits permitted for aircraft passengers from abroad.

He emphasised that this enforcement is a form of the Customs’ commitment to protecting society while safeguarding state revenue from the excise sector. “We will continue to strengthen oversight and synergise with various parties to suppress the circulation of illegal cigarettes in the Aceh region,” he stated.

He urged the public not to buy or distribute illegal cigarettes and to actively participate in reporting any indications of violations in their surroundings.

“Through these steps, we are committed to creating a healthy, fair business climate in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” said Rahmat.