Sheremetyevo customs stopped “Cuban cigar smuggling worth RUB 1 million” involving a Russian woman arriving from Varadero. Source: FCS Russia.
Baggage screening revealed two boxes of “COHIBA Esplendidos” and one of “COHIBA Piramides”, 25 cigars each — 75 in total, hidden in the suitcase. The traveller said they were gifts from Cuban friends and that she was unaware of customs rules.
Expert examination put the market value above RUB 1 million.
A criminal case was opened under Article 226.1(1) of the Criminal Code (smuggling of strategically important resources). The penalty may be up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to RUB 1 million.
