Twenty people arrested after the seizure of 23 tons of loose tobacco in Ciudad Real

The Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT) announced on 25 July 2026 that a coordinated operation with the Guardia Civil resulted in the arrest of twenty individuals following the confiscation of 23 tons of loose tobacco destined for illegal distribution. The operation, carried out in the province of Ciudad Real, targeted a network involved in the storage, transport and commercialisation of untaxed tobacco products. Authorities seized large quantities of raw tobacco, packaging material and equipment used for processing, highlighting the scale of the illicit trade. The arrests demonstrate a concerted effort to curb tobacco smuggling, which poses significant risks to public health and deprives the state of considerable tax revenues. Officials emphasized that such operations are part of broader initiatives to combat informal economies and protect legitimate businesses. The AEAT indicated that the investigation involved surveillance, intelligence gathering and on‑the‑ground raids, coordinated with the Ministry of the Interior. The seized tobacco is being held as evidence while criminal proceedings continue against the suspects. The agency also reminded the public of the importance of reporting suspicious activities related to tobacco trade. This enforcement action underscores the agency’s commitment to enforcing tax compliance and disrupting criminal networks engaged in smuggling. The arrests were reported in a press release titled “Twenty people arrested after the seizure of 23 tons of loose tobacco in Ciudad Real”.

https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/notas-prensa/notas-prensa/2026/julio/25/detenidas-20-personas-tras-incautacion-real.html