Malang Customs Uncovers 1 Million Illegal Cigarettes Hidden Under Rice Husks
Malang Customs officials have uncovered a smuggling operation where over one million illegal cigarettes were hidden under a pile of rice husks in a truck. The enforcement action was carried out during a monitoring operation in Malang Regency, aimed at protecting compliant business actors and preventing the circulation of illegal goods.
The operation began on Monday (29/6/2026) when Malang Customs received information about a truck suspected of transporting illegal excisable goods. Officers conducted ground patrols and surveillance on routes frequently used for transporting illegal cigarettes in the border areas of Malang Regency. By analysing the vehicle profile, officers identified the suspect truck as it passed through Pakis District.
Officers pursued and stopped the vehicle on Jalan Raya Kedungrejo, Kedungboto Village, Pakis District, Malang Regency. Upon inspection, they discovered the cargo of illegal cigarettes deliberately concealed beneath a load of rice husks. The seized items consisted of 53,980 packs, totalling 1,079,600 sticks of machine-rolled kretek cigarettes and machine-made white cigarettes of various brands, including Premium Bold and Humer, none of which were affixed with excise stamps.
The total value of the seized goods is estimated at Rp1,637,734,000, with potential state losses from unpaid excise duties amounting to Rp826,098,400. The driver, the vehicle, and all evidence were taken to the Malang Customs Office for further investigation in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Head of Malang Customs, Johan Pandores, stated that this enforcement is part of the office’s continuous efforts to monitor the circulation of illegal cigarettes, protect state revenue, and create fair business competition for tobacco industry players who comply with excise regulations. He urged the public and business actors not to produce, distribute, or trade illegal cigarettes, emphasising that cigarette excise is a crucial component of state budget revenue used for public welfare. “Active public participation in providing information regarding suspected excise violations greatly assists Customs’ law enforcement efforts. Together, we can maintain a healthy business climate while protecting state revenue to support development,” Johan said.