From: Transport & Logistics News
Posted by: Charles Pauka
A Sydney man has been convicted in the New South Wales Supreme Court following a Customs and Border Protection prosecution. The man was fined $7,954,914 for cigarette smuggling and importing prohibited tobacco.
On 2 August 2007 the man attempted to import a container that he had declared to Customs and Border Protection contained shoes.
Customs and Border Protection officers inspected the container and discovered 150,000 cigarette sticks, and 12,926 kilograms of unprocessed tobacco leaf.
The man was convicted of:
- attempting to smuggle goods;
- attempting to import prohibited imports;
- attempting to evade payment of duty; and
- making a false statement to Customs and Border Protection.
National manager of investigations Kingsley Woodford-Smith warned the public of the seriousness of cigarette smuggling and importing illicit tobacco.
“This was an attempt to deprive the government of legitimate revenue,” Mr Woodford-Smith said.
“The large penalty incurred should be a warning for others thinking of committing similar crimes.
“Customs and Border Protection is serious about detecting and seizing illegal tobacco imports. Those who are caught may face a serious fine or gaol time.”
Anyone with information about tobacco smuggling should call the Customs Watch number on 1800 06 1800, or report online at www.customs.gov.au/customswatch.
Recent amendments to the Customs Act 1901 have increased the maximum penalty for smuggling, importing or possessing such goods. If caught, criminals now face up to 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine equalling five times the duty evaded.
