Batam Customs Seizes 32,790 Illegal Cigarettes in Excise Operation

The Batam Customs and Excise Office has seized 32,790 sticks of illegal cigarettes during an excise operation carried out from 27 to 30 July 2026. The enforcement action was part of ongoing efforts to supervise the circulation of illegal excisable goods in the Batam area.

During the operation, officers inspected several locations identified through area mapping and intelligence gathering. The seized cigarettes, which included brands such as Manchester, R7Bold, H&D, and PSG, had an estimated value of Rp 50.5 million. The potential state revenue loss prevented by the seizure is estimated at Rp 33.1 million.

Agung Widodo, Head of the Batam Customs Office, stated that the operation was not only aimed at confiscating the goods but also at tracing the distribution network back to its source. He noted that information obtained during the operation would be further developed, with possible coordination involving other customs units, government agencies, and law enforcement.

“We will continue to carry out similar operations, both independently and jointly with related agencies, to trace the production sources and distribution routes of illegal cigarettes,” Agung said. He added that the initiative aligns with the broader ASAP programme, which focuses on securing state revenue from the source by suppressing the production and distribution of illegal excisable goods.

Batam Customs also called on the public to refrain from storing, transporting, selling, or distributing cigarettes without excise stamps, with counterfeit stamps, or with stamps not intended for their designated use. Citizens who encounter such products are encouraged to report them to the nearest customs office or through official communication channels, including the Bravo Bea Cukai service at 1500225. Public participation is considered vital in breaking the supply chain of illegal cigarettes and fostering a fair business climate.