Authorities in Ireland have dismantled an illegal cigarette factory in Ardee, Co Louth, leading to the arrest of five men. Revenue officers, with support from An Garda Síochána, executed a warrant to search the premises, uncovering a large-scale illicit cigarette manufacturing operation.
During the raid, officials seized approximately eight tonnes of raw tobacco, manufacturing components, and 660,000 illegal cigarettes branded “NZ.” The estimated retail value of the confiscated cigarettes exceeds €595,000, with a potential tax loss of nearly €470,000. Additionally, Revenue officers seized around €4,500 in cash and are seeking a three-month detention order for the funds.
Authorities believe the factory had the capacity to produce up to 700,000 cigarettes per day, complete with pre-processing and packaging facilities. The operation was carried out with assistance from the Louth Crime Unit, the Regional Armed Support Unit, and detector dog Toby. Revenue also worked alongside other members of the Joint Agency Task Force in preparation for the raid.
The five arrested individuals are currently being held at a Garda station in Co Louth under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act. Investigations into the illegal operation are ongoing.
Revenue continues its efforts to combat the shadow economy and the sale of illicit tobacco products. Authorities are urging businesses and the public to report any information regarding smuggling via their confidential hotline at 1800 295 295.
