Singapore Customs uncovers smuggling operation involving plush toys and duty-unpaid cigarettes.
SINGAPORE – In a two-day operation conducted by Singapore Customs officers, three Chinese nationals were arrested for smuggling duty-unpaid cigarettes hidden inside plush toys. The individuals, aged between 21 and 28, were caught after a referral from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.
The operation took place from October 22 to 23, during which officers uncovered seven parcels containing cigarettes concealed in soft toys that were declared as “decorations.” In total, 115 packets and 19 sticks of duty-unpaid cigarettes were seized, with duties and goods and services tax evaded amounting to approximately $1,279.
One of the suspects, a 21-year-old Chinese national, was arrested at Tao Ching Road, where he was found in possession of 70 packets of duty-unpaid cigarettes across four parcels. He allegedly received the parcels on behalf of an overseas associate and was instructed to either deliver the items or arrange for buyers in Singapore to collect them. The suspect was charged in court on October 25.
The two other men, aged 22 and 28, were fined for their involvement in importing the remaining parcels, receiving fines of $3,000 and $2,500, respectively.
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of Singapore Customs in curbing the smuggling of duty-unpaid goods into the country, particularly in creative and deceptive forms such as concealing contraband within everyday items like plush toys.
