The Customs Department has reported the discovery of thousands of contraband cigarettes and other products on which duty was not paid.

Inspectors carried out raids in Valletta, Hamrun, Rabat, Sta Venera, Armier and Qawra. 

In Valletta, contraband cigarettes were found in a City Gate kiosk and a band club. Other products were found in bars, snack shops and a lido in the various areas raided. 

The discovery in Qawra, the second in a week, involved a person who was in the street selling cigarettes. He was found in possession of 4,500 contraband cigarettes. They were of the Business Royals Red, Richman Red, PallMall Red, American Legend, Silk Cut Purple and Rothman’s Blue brands.

Members of the public were asked to give any information on telephone numbers 2568 5124 or 2568 5200.