The Customs, Excise and VAT Department’s enforcement team conducted a drive against illegally marketed tobacco products in Morelganj of Bagerhat. The operation was carried out on Tuesday afternoon at the Morelganj market.
During the drive, a large quantity of bidi, cigarettes and other tobacco products were seized on suspicion of using fake banderols and for not paying VAT as per Section 6.3 of the VAT Act. Officials from the VAT department stated that these products were being marketed without paying any government duties.
The Customs, Excise and VAT officials further said that illegal production and marketing of such products is depriving the government of significant revenue and also poses a serious threat to public health. Legal action is underway against the seized items.
At the time, VAT officials urged traders to conduct business legally and to cooperate in safeguarding government revenue.
