Truck load: Customs seize 1.4 million illicit cigarettes from a lorry in Tuen Mun.

Customs officers have shut down a mobile illicit cigarette distribution centre and arrested one man in a remote car park in So Kwun Wat, Tuen Mun.

They seized 1.4 million cigarettes worth $1.97 million, and with a duty potential of $1.13 million. The lorry has been impounded.

A cigarette smuggling syndicate used the car park to shadow their distribution activities. About 4am today, officers intercepted the lorry and found the haul.

All the smuggled cigarettes had been sorted and re-packed according to the purchase orders so they could be instantly distributed to buyers at various spots. It is believed the cigarettes originated from the Mainland and were smuggled by sea.

The 54-year-old arrested man will be charged for dealing with dutiable commodities.

To report suspected illicit cigarette activities, call 2545 6182.