Revenue officers have seized over 12,700 illegal cigarettes in the northside of Cork city.

Some 16 kilos of unstamped tobacco were also confiscated, along with two cars used to transport the contraband.

The seizures came following the search of a business premises and two houses as part of the intelligence-led Operation Carzone.

The find included Minsk, Marlboro Gold, Mg, Dorchester and John Player Blue cigarettes, as well as Golden Virginia and Amber Leaf brand tobacco.

A man in his 40s and woman in her 60s were questioned, and a file is being prepared for the DPP.

The combined value of the seizure is estimated to be €14,000, representing a potential loss to the exchequer of around €11,100 in taxes.