A Zabbar man who was arrested on Tuesday after Customs officers found 25,000 contraband cigarettes in a Fgura garage today was handed a suspended sentence and fined over the haul.

Anthony Micallef, 59, admitted to being in possession of 125 cartons of cigarettes and evading customs, excise, VAT and other taxes. He was also charged with offences under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

The prosecution told the court that the total amount of tax evaded was close to €6,400.

Magistrate Ian Farrugia handed down an 18-months jail sentence, which were suspended for two years. The Magistrate explained made the accused aware of the consequences of another breach of law during this period, telling the man that he the reins were now in his hands. He also fined Mr Micallef €14,000.

It is understood that Mr Micallef will be appealing his sentence.

Inspectors Rennie Stivala and Doriette Cuschieri prosecuted. Lawyer Carm Mifsud Bonnici appeared for Mr Micallef.