Smoke detector: Illicit cigarettes are found hidden underneath a wooden platform of a food stall in Sham Shui Po.

Customs officers have cracked 60 illicit cigarette cases in a five-day operation across Hong Kong.

Starting June 14, the operation uncovered illicit cigarettes hidden inside flowerbeds, hose reels and drains, and underneath the wooden platform of food stalls.

About 1.5 million cigarettes were seized, worth about $2.15 million and with a duty potential of about $1.2 million.

Forty-six people aged 20 to 77 were arrested. Of the 43 arrested for selling illicit cigarettes, 25 were two-way permits holders.

Officers also closed six storage centres in Western, Kowloon City, Hung Hom and Mong Kok.

Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone convicted of dealing, possessing, selling or buying illicit cigarettes is liable to a $1 million fine and two years' jail.

To report suspected illicit cigarette activity, call the 24-hour Customs hotline 2545 6182.