Maldives Customs Service has suspended a customs broker from entering customs-controlled areas in connection to the case of illegally imported vehicles which surfaced during 2019.
The authority revealed that the customs broker is prohibited from entering any of the areas under customs’ control, during the suspension period. Further details including to which company the broker belongs, has not been disclosed.
Speaking on RaajjeTV’s Fala Suruhee program earlier, newly-appointed Commissioner General of Customs Abdulla Shareef revealed that two employees were dismissed in regards to the case and that a lot of people’s negligence was observed in the case.
In regards to the case of illegally imported vehicles, we have suspended the broker who was active in clearing the goods. The broker cannot enter any control area. We are here to provide assistance for businesses, I urge them to inform us of any suspicious activity.”Abdulla Shareef, Commissioner General of Customs
He stated that everyone working together is an important step to eradicate corruption, highlighting that “unbelievable acts” are observed from regular brokers and dockworkers alike.
Further, he noted that the authority is receiving the required support in the investigation, from the relevant authorities.
Shareef highlighted that investigations into the case are still ongoing and other issues were also identified through investigations, such as negligence from other relevant authorities such as the Transport Ministry.
During August 2019, customs revealed that 12 motorcycles, two pickup trucks, two trucks and three cars were imported illegally under the name of importing wood and they were all confiscated. The costs and freight for these goods is priced at MVR 586,000, customs estimated.
Shareef stressed that regulations followed under opening containers makes it mandatory for dockworkers, staff of the customs and an official of the Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) to be present and observe what is being unloaded.
