A recent joint search operation on a foreign-flagged sailing vessel in Savusavu resulted in the discovery and seizure of undeclared alcohol, with a total duty liability and compounding penalties exceeding FJ $6,500.
This operation was a collaborative effort involving the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Republic of Fiji Navy (RFN). A boarding team comprised of representatives from FRCS, RFN, the Fiji Dog Detector Unit (FDDU), the Fiji Police Force, the Fiji Immigration Department, the Ministry of Fisheries, the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MOH) conducted the search. They confiscated 234 bottles of 200ml rum, three bottles of 750ml rum, and one bottle of 1 liter of liquor.
The seized items were handed over to FRCS officials for custody, and the vessel’s master faces charges under Section 137 (a) of the Customs Act 1986 for the violation.
Udit Singh, the chief executive of FRCS, praised the officers for their effective interception and their dedication to safeguarding the country against illegal activities. He emphasized that alcohol imports are subject to excise duty in Fiji and that smuggling undermines the nation’s revenue, which is critical for funding essential public services like schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.
Singh also urged operators of foreign vessels to be aware of and adhere to Fiji’s entry requirements and stated that FRCS will maintain a strict stance against illegal activities at the country’s borders.