FRCS seizes smuggled goods

Unscrupulous traders have been warned as smuggled goods such as adults and children's wear, school bags and imitation jewellery have been seized by the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.

FRCS Acting Chief Executive Officer Jonetani Vuto says all traders and importers must declare all the goods in their consignment adding that failure to do so may incur punitive measures with detention, seizure and forfeiture actions and penalties of up to $25,000.

Vuto says FRCS may also prosecute offenders involved in fraudulent evasion of duties and taxes and those found guilty may face a imprisonment term of up to 10 years.

He further says Customs Agents and Brokers, who prepare incorrect declarations are also liable to a fine of up to $25,000 or 10 years imprisonment.

Vuto adds they are continuously conducting risk profiling to target high risk importers.