Morowali Customs Seize 36,000 Illegal Cigarette Sticks in PT IMIP Industrial Area

Morowali Customs has once again demonstrated its commitment to eradicating the circulation of illegal cigarettes. In synergy with Morowali Security Service, officers successfully acted against more than 36,000 illegal cigarette sticks found in several retail shops in the PT Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) area on Thursday (7/5/2026).

The action was carried out as part of efforts to monitor the circulation of illegal excisable goods in the Morowali Customs working area. From the operation results, officers secured various brands of domestically produced and imported cigarettes known to lack excise stamps as required by applicable regulations.

Based on the examination results, the total value of the seized goods is estimated to reach Rp 105 million. From that amount, the potential state loss due to unfulfilled excise obligations is estimated at Rp 66 million.

In addition to seizing the goods, officers also imposed administrative sanctions on the retail traders proven to be selling illegal cigarettes. The total fines imposed in the action amounted to Rp 150 million.

Head of Morowali Customs, Muhariadi Angkat, stated that this action is a tangible form of his institution’s commitment to protecting state revenue while creating a healthy business climate.

“The circulation of cigarettes without excise stamps not only harms the state in terms of revenue but also creates unhealthy business competition. Therefore, we will continue to strengthen monitoring together with all relevant parties,” said Muhariadi.

He also appreciated the support from Morowali Security Service, which he assessed as actively playing a role in safeguarding the industrial area from the circulation of illegal goods. According to him, synergy between agencies and area managers is a key factor in creating an orderly business environment that complies with excise regulations.