BERLIN — Berlin Police made a significant illegal cigarette bust on Tuesday after a routine traffic stop on Route 113.
Around 9:30 p.m. on Monday, a Berlin Police officer stopped a vehicle for speeding on Route 113 near its intersection with Burley Street.
The preliminary investigation revealed the driver, identified as Nasser Othman, 30, of Clifton, N.J., was driving a rental vehicle without authorization. During the initial contact with police, Othman allegedly gave conflicting stories of his departure and destination.
During the interview, the officer saw in plain view four cases of cigarettes on the rear seat. Further investigation revealed Othman was transporting 502 cases, or 5,020 packs, of various brands of cigarettes. The Comptroller of Maryland was advised, responded and seized the cigarettes and the vehicle. The retail value of the cigarettes is estimated at $32,279 and the potential Maryland tax loss is estimated at $1,040.
Othman was arrested and charged with importing and possessing unstamped cigarettes. He was later released on his own recognizance.