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Amid Foot-and-Mouth Outbreak, Smuggled Cattle Bones and Skins were Transported from the Occupied Territories - 22 Boxes of Cigarettes Also Seized

Published March 5, 2026, 07:35
Amid Foot-and-Mouth Outbreak, Smuggled Cattle Bones and Skins were Transported from the Occupied Territories - 22 Boxes of Cigarettes Also Seized

Customs officials arrested a foreigner attempting to smuggle cattle bones and skins from the occupied territories into the free areas. 150 kilograms of animal products were seized in violation of the Green Line regulation, given the recent outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease. In separate incidents, a total of 20 boxes of cigarettes and heated tobacco products were seized, which did not bear the required warning labels in Greek and Turkish, indicating smuggling. Three people were arrested but released after an out-of-court settlement, paying a total of €1200 + €450 for the return of the vehicles. The Customs Department is increasing controls at crossing points, especially after the foot-and-mouth outbreaks, to prevent the transport of contaminated products and smuggled goods. The seizure of animal products is immediate and followed by their destruction, while offenders face fines and possible seizure of their vehicles.