The General Administration of Customs- Abu Dhabi has said that inspectors at the Mezyad Customs Centre foiled three illegal attempts, which involved money and tobacco smuggling attempts as well as an act of commercial fraud.

In details of the first incident, Mezyad Customs’ inspectors became suspicious of an Arab cargo truck driver who was leaving the country. In light of their concerns, inspectors summoned the traveller and the truck to the Customs Clearance Unit for a detailed inspection. As inspectors were carrying out the routine inspection, 1800 boxes of tobacco, each containing 10 packs of different types of cigarettes were found hidden inside garbage bags in the vehicle. Accordingly, a record of the incident and a settlement were issued following the payment of the customs fine.

The second incident was reported when Mezyad Customs’ inspectors became suspicious of a vehicle driven by an Arab traveller headed towards the customs check point. When the vehicle was searched, inspectors discovered money in Saudi and Yemeni currencies hidden in different compartments of the vehicle. The total amount of money smuggled equalled SR 118,485 and YR 70,000. Accordingly, a report was issued on the incident, the money was seized and the suspect was transferred to the competent authorities to take the necessary legal actions.

The last incident took place when Mezyad Customs’ inspectors suspect an Arab truck driver ending customs procedures in preparation to exit the country. The inspectors conducted a thorough inspection of the truck and the goods, and found fraudulent invoices and the country of origin.

The invoices presented stated India as the country of origin for the cargo, while when inspecting the goods, inspectors discovered that the cargo included 34 printers made in the Philippines, four refrigerators from India, 40 boxes of ink from Taiwan and another 40 from the USA, as well as 30 electric toolboxes made in Taiwan. Accordingly, the customs record was issued, settlement was processed, the customs fines were duly paid and the vehicle was sent back to the country of residence.

Rashid Lahej Al Mansouri, director general of the General Administration of Customs- Abu Dhabi said: “The General Administration of Customs -Abu Dhabi sets as a top priority the security of our homeland and the safety of its citizens. Our inspectors have proven yet again great strength in protecting our borders from smuggling attempts that may affect national security and the economy.”

“We continuously look to improve the efficiency and capabilities of our inspectors and qualify them to perform their duties in the best manner. The Administration is committed to contributing effectively to the economic development of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by facilitating the movement of foreign trade across borders, and the collection of customs duties, in accordance with the highest standards of integrity, creativity and excellence,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service