ITC staff files complaint alleging large-scale smuggling of counterfeit cigarettes from Cambodia to Bengaluru

A field executive of ITC Ltd. has filed a complaint with the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) police alleging large-scale smuggling and sale of counterfeit cigarettes from Cambodia under the company’s brand name.

According to the complainant, duplicate cigarettes bearing the ITC brand name are allegedly being manufactured in Cambodia and smuggled into the country by air. The products are reportedly being sold in and around the airport area and distributed to different parts of the State.

The complaint stated that on Sunday at around 12.30 a.m., two persons allegedly arrived at Terminal 2 of the KIA and were involved in dispatching cartons of the counterfeit cigarettes to various locations.

The complainant has alleged that the accused misused the company’s trademark and packaging design to market the fake products, causing financial losses and reputational damage to the company.

Based on the complaint, the police have registered a case. Officials said that efforts were under way to identify the accused and trace the source and distribution network of the counterfeit cigarettes.