In a major crackdown on the illicit tobacco trade, the Regional Tax Office (RTO) Abbottabad has seized a fully operational illegal cigarette manufacturing setup, including high-capacity MK-8 cigarette-making machines, a packing unit, stamping and bundle-making equipment, and substantial quantities of tow, packaging material, and non-duty-paid cigarettes. The manufacturing facility was found running inside the hujra of a politically influential individual. All machinery and illicit products have been confiscated, and legal proceedings have been initiated under the Federal Excise Act, 2005.
The successful enforcement action follows just a day after RTO Abbottabad intercepted 3,000 bales of raw tobacco in a separate intelligence-based operation, highlighting a coordinated and intensified crackdown against illegal tobacco manufacturing and smuggling in the region.
During the raid, enforcement teams discovered packaging materials belonging to Falcon Tobacco, which is already under investigation in a separate case being pursued by RTO Peshawar. The presence of these materials indicates linkages within the broader illicit manufacturing and distribution network.
The seized MK-8 machines, known for their high-speed cigarette production capability, were found fully operational alongside auxiliary systems used for packing, stamping, and bundle preparation. The recovery of large stocks of tow, paper, filters, and branded packaging material demonstrates the scale and sophistication of the illegal operation.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reiterates its commitment to combating illicit tobacco trade, safeguarding government revenue, and enforcing strict compliance across the tobacco sector.
