A total of 350 packets of duty-unpaid cigarettes, with duty and GST amounting to $2,790 , were seized in the operation at a coffee shop in Geylang, Lorong 14, the police and Singapore Customs said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

The three Singaporeans and a foreigner arrested will be charged in court on Wednesday.

Members of the public are warned against buying, selling, conveying, delivering, storing, keeping, having in possession or dealing with contraband cigarettes.

If convicted, offenders can be jailed as well as fined.

The public are also advised against buying duty-unpaid cigarettes. Buyers stand to face a minimum fine of up to $500 or prosecution in court.