Two Fiji Revenue and Customs Service officers have been sent home for their alleged involvement in a vehicle smuggling operation.
The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service says it uncovered what looks like a highly connected network of individuals working within the country with intent to make money from proceeds of criminal activities.
An importer in the Western Division was recently investigated for allegedly smuggling four Hilux vehicles into the country from overseas.
These vehicles were imported between 2016 to 2019.
It has been confirmed that these vehicles were either reported stolen or were written off overseas thus the importation of these vehicles are prohibited under the Customs laws.
They are also investigating two other suspected prohibited vehicle imports into the country.
Chief Executive Officer Visvanath Das says they have uncovered that accident and insurance written-off vehicles are purchased and then the same number plates and road worthiness are used on illegally imported vehicles.
Das says they are collaborating with the Land Transport Authority to holistically crackdown on this illegal operation.
He adds FRCS is also investigating the fact that the vehicle frame or chassis numbers were altered and given a new look to conceal the alleged smuggling racket.
All four vehicles have been detained by FRCS pending legal proceedings.
Das says information received indicates the vehicles came in a consignment marked as spare parts without any declaration of the vehicles.
Das revealed during investigations, two FRCS staff were also implicated as colluding to facilitate this illegal import adding FRCS terminated their employment contracts instantly and is pursuing legal action.
The CEO says they have sought assistance from various Ministries, Private Sector Companies, the Australian Federal Police and Customs and the New Zealand Police and NZ Customs to investigate the matter.
He stressed they realise the Border Security is a serious business and a collaborative approach should be taken with both local border agencies and international Customs Administrations globally to crack down on illegal activities.
Das has assured that while FRCS is committed to facilitate trade, with the processes, systems and partnerships in place at the Border they will detect illegal activities.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any Customs or Tax evasions or any unprofessional conduct by simply emailing to the Chief Executive Officer on ceo@frcs.org.fj or a letter addressed to him or report in person.
