**Title: Pergamos Seizures Result in Significant Customs Fines at British Bases**
**Date: [Insert Date]**
The British bases' crossing point at Pergamos has seen a notable increase in customs enforcement this summer, resulting in fines totaling nearly €11,000 since July 1. This heightened scrutiny coincided with the busy holiday season, leading to two major seizures that accounted for a substantial portion of the fines.
The most significant seizure occurred on July 4, when customs officers intercepted two passengers arriving in separate taxis at the Pergamos crossing. According to Katerina Christofi, a senior officer in customs and immigration, the officers suspected that the individuals were traveling together but had opted for different vehicles in an effort to evade detection. One passenger was found with 13.1 kilograms of hand-rolling tobacco, while the other was carrying 5.65 kilograms. The combined fines for these infractions amounted to €6,300.
A second major incident took place on August 4, when customs officers discovered a concealed stash of contraband in a convertible vehicle. The driver was found to be carrying 2,400 cigarettes, 500 grams of hand-rolling tobacco, and 600 electronic cigarettes, all hidden within the folding roof compartment of the car. This violation resulted in a fine of €1,680.
These two cases are part of a broader enforcement initiative by the British bases' customs and immigration services. Since the beginning of July, officers have seized a total of 17,500 cigarettes, 21 kilograms of hand-rolling tobacco, and 5,500 e-cigarettes. The increase in inspections is attributed to the high volume of traffic, with approximately 115,000 vehicles passing through the crossing points during this period.
Christofi emphasized the importance of maintaining a constant presence at the Pergamos and Strovilia crossing points. "Customs and Immigration officers maintain a 24-hour presence at both crossing points, working tirelessly to intercept illegal goods and subsequently issue strong fines," she stated. The officers are tasked with ensuring compliance with customs regulations, particularly during the peak summer months when traffic is at its highest.
The enforcement actions taken at Pergamos reflect a commitment to curbing illegal trade and ensuring that regulations are upheld. As the summer season continues, customs officials remain vigilant in their efforts to monitor and control the movement of goods across the borders of the British bases.