Customs Intercepts Major Illegal Cigarette Shipment Valued at Rs. 507 Million

Sri Lanka Customs has intercepted a major illegal cigarette shipment at the Colombo Port. The consignment, valued at Rs. 507 million, was discovered in a 40-foot container that had been falsely declared as "bed sheets." Acting on intelligence, customs officials found 3,380,000 foreign cigarettes (equivalent to 16,900 cartons) originating from Dubai. This operation prevented an estimated Rs. 460 million in lost government tax revenue. The shipment was reportedly addressed to a company in Battaramulla, with the stated importer denying ownership. Sources reported the container's arrival date as November 2025.