The customs authorities dismantled three illegal cigarette factories, seizing 42 million cigarettes. The operations occurred during two action days specifically targeting illegal cigarette production. The first took place in Ledegem and the second in Merksem on October 1, 2025.
Details of Operations
During the action in Ledegem, customs officials discovered a factory with significant production capacity. They found two production lines and seized approximately 34 million cigarettes from brands such as Sobranie, Davidoff, Marlboro, L&M, and Rothmans. Additionally, 29 individuals were arrested at the site.
On the following day in Merksem, customs raided a warehouse where a complete production and packaging line was found. They seized three million cigarettes and five tons of tobacco, arresting thirteen individuals during this operation.
Customs continued their efforts on the same day by dismantling a rolling tobacco production site in Oostkamp. Five people were apprehended during related searches of private residences. Furthermore, an illegal cigarette warehouse was discovered in Eigenbrakel.
Year-to-Date Statistics
As of October 1, 2025, customs authorities have seized nearly 150 million cigarettes and dismantled seven production sites this year. This is in contrast to 2024, when a total of 281 million cigarettes were confiscated and twelve production sites were dismantled.
