A Portuguese-plated semi-tow truck carrying a total of 1.998,000 cigarettes in a hidden compartment was intercepted by the GNR during a routine check near Portimão on December 18.
The smuggled cigarettes, including brands such as Ducados, Marshal, American Legend and Chesterfield, are reported as having a market value of €349,650, with tax owed to the State amounting to €283,800.
The 43-year-old male driver of foreign nationality was stopped by the GNR during a routine cargo check along the EN125. The driver was arrested and is due to appear in court.
On December 11, a Spanish-plated vehicle carrying a total of 730,000 cigarettes was intercepted by the GNR during a routine check near Olhão.
A 57-year-old male driver of foreign nationality was stopped by the GNR after officers noticed the vehicle was carrying excessive cargo.
