German customs bust large illegal cigarette factory in Haan, seize dozens of suspects
Customs officials dismantled an illicit cigarette production site in Haan near Düsseldorf, arresting 21 people and confiscating equipment and tobacco supplies.
Customs agents raided a hidden cigarette manufacturing facility in a Haan warehouse, discovering a complete production chain that could produce large volumes of untaxed cigarettes. The operation yielded raw tobacco, filters, paper and forged packaging for several brands, as well as machinery for cutting, drying and packaging. Investigators detained 21 individuals; 19 remain in investigative custody while two have had arrest orders executed.
Cash exceeding €50,000 was recovered from the two main suspects, and a tractor was also seized nearby. The probe, which began in May 2026, alleges tax evasion and handling of stolen goods, with the group allegedly selling the counterfeit cigarettes on the black market. Approximately 350 personnel from customs, the Bundespolizei and the Technisches Hilfswerk were involved in the multi-day effort.
