A recent joint search operation on a foreign-flagged sailing vessel in Savusavu led to the discovery and seizure of undeclared alcohol worth over FJ $6,500 in duty charges and penalties. The operation was a collaborative effort involving the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Republic of Fiji Navy (RFN).
A team composed of officials from various agencies, including the FRCS, RFN, Fiji Dog Detector Unit, Fiji Police Force, Fiji Immigration Department, Ministry of Fisheries, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services conducted the search. During the operation, they confiscated 234 bottles of 200ml rum, three bottles of 750ml rum, and one bottle of 1-liter liquor.
The confiscated items were handed over to FRCS for custody, and the vessel’s master was arrested and charged under Section 137 (a) of the Customs Act 1986 for the offense.
Udit Singh, the chief executive of FRCS, praised the officers for their effective interception and diligent work in safeguarding the borders from illegal activities. He emphasized that alcohol imports are subject to excise duty in Fiji, and smuggling undermines government revenue that supports essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Singh also reminded operators of foreign vessels to familiarize themselves with and adhere to Fiji’s entry requirements, asserting that FRCS would maintain a zero-tolerance policy for illegal activities at the country’s borders.