Israel customs officials succeeding in intercepting a shipment of 27 tons of illegal fireworks that was labeled flashlights. The illegal cargo was apprehended in the Port of Ashdod.

A month ago a 40 foot container arrived from China at the port. The container was labeled “flashlights”, and it was stored in the port for what officials felt was a prolonged period.

After weeks passed and the container was unclaimed, customs officials decided to open the container. Agents were surprised to find the container was filled with 27 tons of illegal explosives. Customs officials’ add this is the single largest shipment of fireworks that has ever been intercepted.

An official investigation was launched on Wednesday, 16 Sivan involving customs, value added tax agents, port security and other agencies in the hope of tracking down the parties involved.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / Photos: Customs Spokesman’s Office)