CBP Seizes 749 Cartons Of Cigarettes From 2 Cruise Passengers’ Luggage In California

U.S. Customs And Border Protection said it seized 749 cartons of illegally imported cigarettes from the luggage of two women disembarking from a cruise ship in California.

Two women, traveling together, arrived at the Long Beach Cruise Ship Terminal in a cruise ship from Ensenada, Mexico, on April 17 and presented themselves and their luggage for CBP inspection. CBP officers discovered “10 pieces of luggage full of cigarettes,” and although the women presented receipts, they did not have permits to import such a large “commercial” quantity of tobacco products.

“The importation of tobacco products is highly regulated from both tax and consumer safety perspectives,” said Cheryl M. Davies, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles. “Travelers who intentionally disregard U.S. importation laws and regulations often pay a high price.”

Photos shared by CBP show some of the 749 cartons of cigarettes, which included 326 cartons of Newport 100s, 58 cartons of Newport regulars, 112 cartons of Marlboro Red, 43 cartons of Marlboro Silver, and 210 cartons of Marlboro Gold cigarettes.

According to the agency, a low-end estimate of $80 dollars per carton in the state of California puts the total value of the seizure at $59,920.

“Selling illegally imported cigarettes could yield high profits for underground vendors due to the low cost of cigarettes when purchased overseas and the evasion of taxes owed upon import,” said Africa R. Bell, CBP Port Director of Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport. “This type of scheme not only evades revenue owed to the United States but may be harmful to the American consumer. CBP officers at our nations largest seaport complex, remain committed to enforcing our laws and to protect the American public.”

CBP said the seized cigarettes would be destroyed under CBP supervision.