Major Cigarette Factory Raided in Toulouse
In a significant crackdown on Monday morning, the police raided a secret cigarette factory in Toulouse, resulting in the arrest of five men and the seizure of a substantial amount of contraband tobacco. The operation was initiated following a tip-off from the night-time anti-crime brigade (BAC) of Rive Gauche, leading to a swift response from the departmental security forces.
Upon searching the facility, investigators found a trove of 571 kg of tobacco packets designed to mimic a popular brand. The clandestine setup was equipped with three machines—one for blending tobacco, another for packing cigarettes, and a third for creating cigarette cartons. The search extended to the residence of one of the suspects, where a Category B firearm and Category C ammunition were uncovered.
Swift Justice: Court Appearance on Wednesday
The suspects in question will face immediate trial this Wednesday. The Toulouse prosecutor’s office has charged them with the crime of organized fraudulent tobacco manufacturing and possession of firearms for the individual found with the weapon. The accused face penalties of up to ten years in prison and a fiscal fine of 500,000 euros, “in addition to tax penalties that may reach up to 100 times the amount of dodged duties,” the prosecutor’s office specifies.
