Pantoloan Customs Probes Distribution Network Behind 4.2 Million Illegal Cigarettes

Palu (ANTARA) – The Pantoloan Customs and Excise Supervision and Service Office (KPPBC TMP C) has begun investigating the illicit distribution network behind 4.2 million cigarettes without excise stamps in Donggala regency, Central Sulawesi.

KPPBC TMP C Pantoloan head Wing Hartopo said in Palu on Sunday that all the evidence — 4.2 million illegal cigarettes of various brands, two lorries used to transport them and their drivers — had been secured at the Pantoloan Customs office.

“All the goods seized have been taken to KPPBC TMP C Pantoloan for examination and further investigation to identify the parties involved in the illegal cigarette distribution network,” Wing said.

He said the seized cigarettes included the brands Marlong, New GP Classic Bold, Marbol Filter Black, Smith Mango, Smith Watermelon, Smith Grape, Smith Melon and Boss Coffee Latte.

“The illegal cigarettes are estimated to be worth Rp6.23 billion, with potential state losses of Rp4.06 billion because the required excise duties were not paid in accordance with the applicable regulations,” he said.

According to Wing, those involved could face charges under Article 54 of Law No. 11/1995 on Excise, as amended several times, most recently by Law No. 7/2021 on the Harmonisation of Tax Regulations.

“The law expressly prohibits anyone from offering, handing over, selling or making available for sale excisable goods that do not bear an excise stamp,” he said.

He said the office was committed to strengthening surveillance and enforcement against the circulation of illegal cigarettes in the area, which causes losses to the state.

“Law enforcement agencies are committed to protecting the public from illegal goods while maintaining a healthy competitive climate for tobacco-product industries that comply with the law,” he said.