Skopje Basic Court sentenced Thursday Kumanovo "tobacco boss" Bajrus Sejdiu to five years in prison for criminal association, violation of copyrights and law on excise.

Sejdiu was indicted together with 32 other individuals, whereas his closest associates Remzi Ramadani and Naim Seteri each received 4.5 years in jail, with one defendant acquitted.

According to the indictment, Sejdiu and his associates falsified cigarettes of different brands for years. They will also have to pay damages to the state, whereas property would be seized if the funds do not cover the amount.

Defense lawyers said they would lodge an appeal to the verdict.