CBP Seizes 750 Cartons of Illegal Cigarettes

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized about 750 cartons (approximately 150,000 cigarettes) from two female cruise passengers arriving at the Long Beach Cruise Ship Terminal from Ensenada, Mexico. The cigarettes, including brands like Newport and Marlboro, were discovered in ten pieces of luggage and valued at nearly $60,000. The passengers presented purchase receipts but lacked required import permits for commercial quantities, as regulated by the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, and the products did not meet FDA labeling standards. CBP officials highlighted that such smuggling schemes evade significant tax revenue and can pose consumer safety risks. All seized cigarettes are set for destruction, and the incident is considered one of the largest tobacco seizures at the LA/Long Beach seaport. Authorities may continue their investigation and reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing import laws and protecting public health.