Customs Seizes 160,000 Illegal Cigarette Sticks in Minibus
A minibus suspected of transporting illegal Excise Subject Tobacco Products (BKC HT) was stopped and inspected by Malang Customs officers in the Malang city area on Friday night, 13 March 2026.
The result was the securing of 8,000 packs or 160,000 illegal cigarette sticks valued at more than Rp 200 million. This enforcement action stemmed from public information received by Malang Customs around 9:00 p.m. WIB regarding a vehicle suspected of carrying illegal cigarettes.
In response to the report, the team immediately conducted ground patrols and intensive monitoring on the suspected distribution routes, particularly in the Malang city border area.
Based on the analysis of the vehicle’s profile and distribution patterns, officers successfully identified a white minibus as the operation’s target.
The vehicle was detected travelling from Pakis towards Arjosari. The team then pursued and managed to stop the vehicle on Teluk Cendrawasih Street, Arjosari Ward, Blimbing Subdistrict, around 10:00 p.m. WIB.
During the inspection, officers found cargo consisting of machine-made clove cigarettes (SKM) of the King Garet brand with excise bands suspected to be fake. The total evidence seized amounted to 10 cartons, equivalent to 8,000 packs, with an overall total of 160,000 cigarette sticks.
From the enforcement action, the value of the goods is estimated at Rp 237.6 million, with potential state losses saved of Rp 119.36 million.
Subsequently, all evidence along with the transport vehicle has been secured for further investigation and processing in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Head of Malang Customs Office, Johan Pandores, emphasised his office’s commitment to eradicating the circulation of illegal cigarettes. This enforcement is a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in protecting the public and maintaining a healthy business climate.
“We are committed to protecting the public. This enforcement is a real form of the state’s presence in eradicating the circulation of illegal cigarettes that harm the state and disrupt a healthy business climate,” he stated on Tuesday (7 April 2026).