An AFM rapid deployment team found a quantity of contraband cigarettes on a trawler off Malta after a chase in rough seas on Sunday night.

The trawler had allegedly arrived from Misurata and berthed in Grand Harbour. It however sailed out again as customs officers prepared for a search.

An AFM power boat chased the trawler from the maritime squadron base in Hay Wharf and the rapid deployment team boarded the trawler some six miles out. They found 46 boxes of contraband cigarettes.

A police investigation is under way.