Malang Customs Seizes 200,000 Illegal Cigarettes Worth Rp298 Million

MALANG – Malang Customs foiled the shipment of 200,000 illegal cigarettes worth Rp298 million in an MPV in Sukun district, Malang city, on Monday (26 October 2026).

The operation began after officers received information about illegal cigarettes being transported in a private car. Acting on the tip-off, a team searched areas in Gondanglegi, Kepanjen and Pakisaji, and spotted the vehicle travelling along Adi Mulya Street in Pakisaji district, Malang regency. Officers gave chase and stopped it on Lowokdoro Street, in Kebonsari ward, Sukun district, Malang city, for inspection.

Officers found machine-made kretek cigarettes (SKM) and machine-made white cigarettes (SPM) of various brands without excise stamps. The haul comprised 10,010 packs, or 200,200 cigarettes. The goods were taken to the Malang Customs Office for further examination and handling in accordance with the applicable regulations. Their estimated value was Rp298,257,000, and the operation prevented potential state losses of Rp149,925,200.

Malang Customs chief Johan Pandores said the use of private vehicles was one method that needed to be monitored in efforts to control the distribution of illegal cigarettes. “That is why we continue to conduct land patrols and follow up information about suspected shipments of illegal cigarettes in the Malang Raya area,” he said.

Through land patrols and action against vehicles used to transport the goods, Malang Customs is continuing its efforts to prevent the distribution of illegal cigarettes from spreading. The public is also encouraged to report any indications of illegal cigarette sales to Customs.