The Ethiopian Customs Commission seized contraband worth over 375.6 million Br during a week-long operation from 5 to 12 November 2025. The haul included 350.2 million Br in illegal imports and 25.4 million Br in export contraband, covering textiles, electronics, coffee, grains, vehicle parts, cosmetics, khat, narcotics, pharmaceuticals, minerals, live animals, and foreign currency. Hawassa led with 70 million Br seized, followed by Moyale with 69 million Br and Awash with 64 million Br. Authorities detained twenty-three suspects and impounded five vehicles. The operation relied on joint inspections, public tips, and aerial surveillance, involving Customs officers, federal and regional police, and local communities. The Commission warned that smugglers’ tactics are constantly evolving and urged citizens and institutions to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to protect the national economy from illicit trade.

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