In the heart of Lake Garda, the Italian Guardia di Finanza has uncovered a large illicit trade of potentially dangerous electronic cigarettes. An Italian citizen has been reported for smuggling and unauthorized sale of monopoly products, with the seizure of over 500 electronic cigarettes and other items that do not comply with current regulations.
The investigations were conducted by the Guardia di Finanza station in Cles, which is engaged in constant territory control activities to ensure economic and financial legality. The finance officers identified the man as responsible for the illegal sale, both through direct channels and via social media.
The preliminary investigative activity raised suspicions about the existence of an abusive commercial network. The subsequent search of the suspect’s residence confirmed the authorities’ fears: 539 “E CIG” electronic cigarettes were seized, lacking Italian labeling and the CE mark. Many of the devices contained nicotine levels exceeding the limits established by European standards, making them potentially harmful to health.
During the operations, the officers also found a labeling machine, dispensers, advertising business cards, aromatic bases, and chemical agents used for self-production of smoking substances. Furthermore, all the necessary materials for shipping orders received online were found.
Analyzing the documentation acquired during the investigations, a considerable turnover related to the illicit activity emerged. The total volume of marketed or held products amounted to approximately 1.7 quintals.
At the end of the investigations, in addition to the criminal complaint forwarded to the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Trento, the responsible individual was subject to a heavy ancillary sanction of approximately 861,000 euros. This amount represents the total indirect taxes and evaded consumption by the subject involved in the illegal activity.
This operation is part of the daily actions carried out by the Guardia di Finanza against illicit trafficking. The main objective remains the protection of state revenues and public health.
In compliance with Legislative Decree 8 November 2021 no. 188, it is reminded that every person under investigation is presumed innocent until a final irrevocable judgment is reached.
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