A routine check revealed an ingenious smuggling attempt at the Lipcani customs post. Customs officers discovered 500 packs of cigarettes hidden in a compartment intended for the spare wheel of a Dacia Logan car, IPN reports.

The car was driven by a 34-year-old Romanian citizen, who was on the control track for the exit from the country. When asked by the officers about the transported goods, both the driver and the passengers said they had nothing to declare except their personal belongings.

However, the customs officers decided to check the vehicle thoroughly. Thus, in the compartment designed for the spare wheel they found 500 packs of cigarettes marked with the excise stamp of the Republic of Moldova.

The cigarettes will be confiscated and the person involved faces penalties. The authorities reiterate the need to comply with the law and stress that such strict controls are essential to protect the national economy.