Huge padlocks, rexine seized for false declaration

Our Correspondent

BENAPOLE, Nov 14: Customs officials have seized a large consignment of padlocks and rexine (a kind of artificial leather) at Benapole port on charge of importing the items through false declaration causing the government a loss of Tk 120 million revenue.

Customs Commissioner Azizur Rahman seized the consignment from shed No 28 of the port on Thursday afternoon.

The authorities disclosed the information through a press release on Saturday.

According to sources at the Benapole Customs, Shafi Iron Trades, an importer from Jashore, had imported 1,051 packs of padlocks and rexine from India with the declaration of parts and accessories.

After receiving a tip-off, the commissioner inspected the consignment with his own team IRM and seized an additional 18 tonnes 982 kg high dutiable padlocks and rexine.

The license of C&F agent Talukdar Traders was suspended on charges of direct involvement in the tax evasion.

At the same time, Tk 6.12 million was realised in fine also against the consignment.

Benapole Customs Commissioner Md Azizur Rahman said a large consignment of imported padlocks and rexine was seized on false declaration.

Revenue of Tk 120 million has been collected excluding the fine, he said, adding, a high powered team of officers is working to prevent tax evasion.

Process has been started to permanently suspend licenses of the C&F agents which are directly involved in tax evasion, the commissioner added.

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