Increased controls on the Polish-German border
On the Polish-German border they have been going on since May this year. Increased controls. Their goal is to limit illegal immigration, but also for the cross -country and Poles exceeding the border. It is about transporting cigarettes, which could then be sold or distributed in Germany.
Two control questions about smoking
The customs officers decided to ask two control questions. The first is “Do you smoke cigarettes?” And the second “What cigarettes are you smoking?”. The answer is not without significance. If cigarettes are found during a search in the car, excise duties will be calculated, and criminal proceedings may also be initiated.
How much can be transported for your own use?
Transporting cigarettes without prior notification at the Customs Office is only allowed for its own use. Even in a small amount, however, such products cannot be transported for a third party. Meanwhile, “for yourself” means 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarries, 200 cigars or 1 kg of tobacco. However, not only exceeding this limit, but also to conceal information will have serious consequences. The questions are to verify the honesty of a person crossing the border, especially since it is difficult to prove that something is actually for their own use.
Increased controls due to migration
Increased inspections also take place at the border crossings of Germany with the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and Austria. Additional patrols were sent to the action. This is a response to illegal migration and a threat to internal security. It was decided to lead them until September 15, 2025, although they could be extended after that date. All illegal immigrants are to be turned back, even if they apply for asylum. Busy, cars and freight transport are also particularly controlled to capture forbidden goods. In May, the interior minister Alexander Dobrindt issued a command to the Federal Police. With about 4,000 km of the country's border is controlled by several thousand officers.
Sources: Business Insider, Polish observer