KUWAIT CITY, Feb 17: The General Administration of Customs has foiled two separate attempts to smuggle a total of 704 cartons of cigarettes through the Nuwaiseeb border crossing, as part of intensified efforts to tighten control over land borders and combat illegal trafficking.

In the first case, customs inspectors grew suspicious of a vehicle attempting to exit the crossing. A thorough inspection led to the discovery of 200 cartons of cigarettes cleverly concealed inside soap boxes, apparently in an attempt to evade detection. In the second incident, officers intercepted another vehicle and discovered 504 cartons hidden within the rear interior, indicating that it had been specially prepared for smuggling.

Authorities have prepared official reports, and the suspects will be referred to the Criminal Investigation Department for further legal proceedings. Customs officials reaffirmed their commitment to confronting smuggling activities and safeguarding the country’s borders.