REVENUE OFFICERS AT Rosslare Europort in Wexford seized 9.9 million illicit cigarettes that had been smuggled on board a ferry from France yesterday.

Revenue said risk profiling had led to the search and that the cigarettes were worth an estimated €8.3 million, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of  €6.5 million. 

The illicit cigarettes, branded ‘Superkings’ and ‘Winston’, were discovered last night when Revenue officers stopped and examined an accompanied freight unit which had disembarked a ferry arriving from Dunkirk, France, a spokesperson said in a statement.

A man has been questioned in relation to these events and investigations are ongoing, they said.

Revenue said the seizure was part of ongoing operations targeting the sale and supply of illegal cigarettes and tobacco in the shadow economy.

Revenue asked any businesses or members of the public who have any information about smuggling to contact the service in confidence on 1800 295 295.