California authorities recently disrupted a major tobacco smuggling attempt. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized nearly 750 cartons of cigarettes valued at around $60,000. Two women attempted to import the goods illegally during their cruise arrival.
When the cruise ship reached the Long Beach Cruise Ship Terminal. The ship had set sail from Ensenada, Mexico, just days earlier. Upon arrival, CBP officers inspected the passengers’ luggage. As a result, they uncovered a massive stash of cigarettes.
Inside the women’s luggage, officers discovered 10 large suitcases filled with tobacco products. Specifically, they found 749 cartons of cigarettes. Among them were 326 cartons of Newport 100’s, 58 cartons of Newport regulars, 112 cartons of Marlboro Red, 43 cartons of Marlboro Silver, and 210 cartons of Marlboro Gold.
Although the women presented receipts for the cigarettes, they failed to show the necessary permits. Importing large quantities of tobacco products requires proper authorization from the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
Under U.S. law, anyone importing tobacco for business purposes must have an importer permit. Without this, the goods cannot enter the country. Since the women lacked the appropriate documentation, CBP officers seized all 749 cartons.
She further noted that individuals who ignore these regulations face severe penalties. Additionally, Africa R. Bell, CBP Port Director for the Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport, explained that smuggling cigarettes evades tax revenue. This kind of scheme not only hurts U.S. taxpayers but also harms consumers by flooding the market with potentially unsafe products.
The women’s attempt highlights the dangers posed by underground tobacco trade. By purchasing cigarettes overseas at low prices, smugglers evade taxes and profit at the expense of American consumers. In response, CBP remains vigilant in upholding the nation’s laws and protecting public safety.
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