A Stuff investigation found illegal cigarettes were being sold in dairies at low prices, bought from gangs smuggling them in. The revelation comes after Customs confirmed it had prosecuted three former Air China staff for smuggling in 2150 cigarettes through Auckland Airport. RICKY WILSON/STUFF Customs Investigations Manager Bruce Berry said even though the Air China offence was “relatively small,” the worry is whether it escalates. Air China itself was not charged, but legal counsel for the company applied for permanent name suppression, later withdrew the application and suppression lapsed on November 20. Earlier this year a Stuff investigation revealed how common illegal cigarettes have become across Auckland.

Source: Stuff August 10, 2021 04:52 UTC