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A major clandestine tobacco operation has been dismantled in the Alicante province after the Guardia Civil uncovered an illegal factory producing cigarettes for the black market, with seized goods valued at more than three million euros.

 

The discovery was made in the town of Muro de Alcoy, where officers arrested two men and seized more than 300,000 packs of cigarettes that were ready to be distributed illegally. Industrial machinery, along with several large trucks and vans believed to have been used to transport the products, was also confiscated.

 

According to the Guardia Civil, the investigation began in early November last year, when agents from the Organised Crime and Anti-Drug Team, known as EDOA, noticed suspicious activity at a warehouse in the Canaleta industrial estate. Officers reported that “the facility remained hermetically sealed during the day” and that loading and unloading took place “hastily and at unusual hours”, raising immediate concerns.

 

Those suspicions were confirmed when a trailer leaving the premises was intercepted. Inside, officers found tobacco production machinery, loose tobacco and screen-printing plates for well-known cigarette brands. Investigators later confirmed that the warehouse was functioning as a fully operational industrial facility dedicated to the illegal manufacture of tobacco products.

 

During a full search of the site, officers uncovered evidence suggesting that up to 12 people may have been working inside the warehouse for long periods, in unsanitary conditions. The two men arrested, aged 22 and 51, now face charges including crimes against public health, smuggling, belonging to a criminal organisation and offences against industrial property. Both were brought before the courts in Alcoy, which ordered their pre-trial detention.

 

The Guardia Civil has stressed that the investigation remains open and that further arrests or actions linked to this operation cannot be ruled out.

 

The discovery comes amid growing concern over the rise in illegal tobacco across Spain, as higher prices push more smokers towards the black market. It also follows earlier large-scale seizures in Alicante province, highlighting the scale and organisation behind counterfeit tobacco distribution.

 

The Guardia Civil has confirmed that the investigation remains open and that further actions linked to the operation are not ruled out. The case will now continue through the courts in Alcoy, while officers pursue any additional leads connected to the dismantled factory.

 

Image: Guardia Civil