"In the wake of two tobacco thefts, assessed at more than three million euros, carried out in two spaces with customs status, in Setúbal and in Montijo, an investigation was carried out that culminated in the detection of tobacco in a warehouse in Alcochete," the GNR said in a statement released on Tuesday.

In a search at the premises more than two million cigarettes of various brands were seized, as well as more than 22,000 cardboard boxes bearing tobacco brand names, with the capacity to store a further 225 million cigarettes.

"The missing tax due is more than thirty-six million euros, with twenty eight million relating to the Social Consumption Tax on tobacco, and more than eight millions to VAT," the statement said.

During the operation five people were identified, it said, adding that the investigation continues.