Malang Customs Foils Distribution of 977,200 Illegal ESS and Marbol Brand Cigarettes

Customs and Excise officers in Malang have reaffirmed their commitment to curbing the circulation of illegal cigarettes following a successful operation. In a raid conducted in the early hours of Saturday (20/6/2026), officers foiled an attempt to distribute 977,200 illicit cigarettes of the ESS and Marbol brands, which were suspected of being destined for areas outside the Malang region. The enforcement action was initiated based on intelligence information regarding a vehicle suspected of transporting illegal excisable goods. Following up on the lead, the Malang Customs team intensified patrols and surveillance along distribution routes, particularly in the border areas of Malang Regency. Based on vehicle profiling and field sweeps, officers identified a white microbus and subsequently intercepted it on Bandarangin Road, Sumberrejo Village, Pagak District. An inspection of the vehicle revealed a cargo of machine-rolled kretek cigarettes and machine-rolled white cigarettes from various brands, including ESS and Marbol, none of which were affixed with excise stamps. In total, officers seized 49,000 packs containing 977,200 illegal cigarettes. The vehicle and its driver were also detained and transported to the Malang Customs Office for further legal proceedings. Johan, Head of the Malang Customs and Excise Office, stated in a written release on Wednesday (8/7/2026) that the agency would continue to strengthen supervision through the use of intelligence information, field patrols, and synergy with law enforcement and local governments. He noted that the operation had prevented potential state revenue losses estimated at Rp 723,991,200, while the total value of the seized goods was estimated at Rp 1.45 billion. Johan also urged the public to play an active role in combating the circulation of illegal cigarettes by refraining from buying, selling, or distributing them, emphasising that public support is crucial for fostering a healthy business climate and safeguarding state revenue from the excise sector.