Radom police seize nearly 110,000 illegal cigarettes

24 February 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Officers from the Radom traffic police, part of the Mazovian Speed group, intercepted almost 110,000 cigarettes without Polish excise stamps during a roadside check; potential state loss near PLN 200,000.

During a roadside check near Radom, officers discovered nearly 110,000 packs of illegal cigarettes lacking Polish excise stamps, a seizure that prompted the detention of a 50-year-old driver and highlighted the scale of tobacco smuggling that can erode state revenue and public safety. Authorities estimate the loss to the skarb państwa (state treasury) at close to PLN 200,000.

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What happened

Police from the Wydział Ruchu Drogowego Komendy Miejskiej Policji w Radomiu, operating as part of the mazowiecka grupa Speed, stopped a vehicle in Zatopolicach in Radom county. During the inspection officers found about 110,000 cigarette units without Polish excise marks (stamps), a clear indicator that the tobacco was intended for sale without proper taxation. The driver, a 50-year-old man, was detained while the contraband was secured as evidence.

Why this matters

Excise stamps on tobacco products are Poland’s way to show that the required taxes have been paid. When large batches of cigarettes circulate without these marks, the state loses significant tax revenue; in this case authorities estimate nearly PLN 200,000 in potential excise and value-added tax. Beyond lost revenue, the sale of untaxed tobacco fuels an underground economy, undermines licensed retailers, and can be linked to organised criminal networks. Roadside interception by specialised traffic units like the Speed group shows how routine checks on highways and secondary roads function as an enforcement tool.

Enforcement and possible legal consequences

Possession of large quantities of unstamped cigarettes typically triggers more than a simple fine. Police and fiscal authorities may investigate for tax evasion, smuggling or intent to distribute. Consequences can include seizure of goods and vehicle, hefty fines, and potential criminal charges depending on the scale and whether organised crime links are suspected. The formal term skarb państwa used by Polish authorities refers to the state treasury — losses to it are framed as harm to public finances.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland tobacco products bear excise stamps showing taxes have been paid. Buying or transporting large quantities of unstamped or foreign-stamped cigarettes can lead to seizure and criminal proceedings for tax evasion or smuggling. If you are an expat: avoid purchasing very cheap cigarettes from informal sellers or across borders beyond duty-free allowances. Police traffic stops by units such as the mazowiecka grupa Speed are common on major routes; always keep vehicle documents, purchase receipts and be prepared to explain the origin of goods. For significant quantities, authorities will assume intent to sell unless you can prove otherwise.

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