Indonesian customs officials have intercepted a large shipment of illegal cigarettes along the Merak-Bakauheni ferry route. The Directorate General of Customs and Excise seized 8,262,000 cigarettes during two separate operations involving two trucks. The cigarettes were being smuggled across the key transportation link between Java and Sumatra. Authorities did not disclose the origin or intended destination of the illicit goods. This seizure represents a significant effort to combat the illegal tobacco trade within Indonesia. Further investigations are underway to identify those involved in the smuggling operation and prevent future attempts. The operation highlights ongoing challenges in controlling the flow of contraband through major Indonesian ports.