Italian authorities have seized more than 150 tonnes of counterfeit cigarettes from the largest underground factory of its kind ever uncovered in Italy. Located near the town of Cassino, southeast of Rome, the clandestine operation could produce over seven million cigarettes a day—about 2.7 billion annually. The 1,600‑square‑metre facility was hidden in an underground bunker that could be accessed only through a sophisticated hydraulic system. Electric switches concealed in a cardboard box lifted an aluminium cabin, revealing the bunker entrance.
Inside, officers discovered a fully equipped industrial plant with three tobacco‑processing and counterfeit‑cigarette packaging lines, operating at an advanced technological level. The factory was capable of producing roughly 5,000 cigarettes per minute and featured a ventilation system designed to prevent emissions from escaping. The site also contained makeshift living quarters, including 18 beds, bathrooms, showers, a dining room, and a workshop for on‑site machine repairs.
The finance ministry estimates that the factory generated more than €900 million in annual revenue, with around €600 million in evaded taxes uncovered so far. The investigation has identified several suspects, and one individual has been arrested. The seizure of the counterfeit cigarettes and the shutdown of the operation represent a significant blow to organized‑crime groups involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit goods.
This discovery highlights the ongoing efforts of Italian authorities to combat tax evasion and counterfeit activities, which pose substantial threats to the country’s economy and public health. The scale and sophistication of the operation underscore the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among law‑enforcement agencies. As the investigation proceeds, further details about the suspects and the extent of their network are expected to emerge. The successful dismantling of the counterfeit cigarette factory testifies to the effectiveness of Italy’s customs police and finance ministry in protecting the economy and ensuring public safety.
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