Cigarette Smuggling Bust in PNG: Millions in Black Market Stock Seized
Papua New Guinea Customs officers have delivered a major blow to smugglers after intercepting 3.5 million undeclared cigarette sticks worth K3.54 million on the black market.
The July 7 bust at the Motukea container facility came after a scanning machine detected suspicious readings in a shipment declared as “tissues.” When opened, the cargo revealed millions of illicit cigarettes packed inside — a discovery Customs says sends a powerful message to smugglers.
Chief commissioner David Towe hailed the interception as a victory for PNG, declaring: “Every stick we intercept is a win for PNG. This seizure proves our borders are not open to smugglers and criminals.” He said the operation also reflected strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies and international intelligence networks.
Authorities believe the shipment originated from Asia, destined for PNG’s black market, where illicit tobacco has previously flourished. But sustained crackdowns have turned the tide, with Customs reporting that illegal tobacco’s market share has plunged from nearly 40 per cent in 2019 to less than six per cent in 2023.
Towe said while the latest bust was a triumph, the fight was far from over. “This is a significant loss for smugglers, but it is also a warning — PNG is no safe haven for illicit trade,” he warned.
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