Customs find 6.256 kg of nasvay in passenger’s suitcase

Customs officers at Vilnius Airport found 6.256 kilograms of nasvay in the luggage of a passenger travelling from Uzbekistan via Warsaw, LRT reported, citing the Customs Criminal Service.

The chewing tobacco was packed in plastic bottles inside a suitcase. The passenger had not declared the goods for customs inspection. Administrative proceedings have been launched over the violation.

Nasvay is a smokeless tobacco product common in Central Asia, usually made in the form of granules, powder or small balls. Users place it under the tongue or between the lip and gum, allowing nicotine to be absorbed quickly through the mouth lining.

Specialists warn that using nasvay can lead to strong nicotine dependence, damage to the mouth lining and gums, and an increased risk of mouth and throat cancer. Illegally made products may contain substances of unknown origin and may be produced without proper hygiene standards. Their ingredients can include lime or ash, as well as bird or other animal manure.

Tobacco products may be brought into Lithuania only in accordance with legal requirements. Customs urged travellers and parcel recipients to consider both the legal consequences and the health risks posed by illegal tobacco products.