A collaborative search operation on a foreign-flagged sailing vessel in Savusavu led to the discovery and seizure of undeclared alcohol, accumulating a total duty liability and penalty exceeding FJ $6,500.
The operation was a result of joint intelligence efforts by the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Republic of Fiji Navy (RFN). A boarding team, which included members from various agencies such as FRCS, RFN, Fiji Dog Detector Unit (FDDU), Fiji Police Force, Fiji Immigration Department, Ministry of Fisheries, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), and Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MOH), conducted the search.
During the operation, they confiscated a total of 234 bottles of 200ml rum, three bottles of 750ml rum, and one bottle of 1 litre liquor. The seized items were handed over to FRCS officials for detention, and the vessel’s captain was arrested and charged under Section 137 (a) of the Customs Act 1986 for violating customs regulations.
Udit Singh, chief executive of FRCS, praised the officers for their successful interception and diligence in protecting the country’s borders from illegal activities. He emphasized that alcohol incurs excise duty upon import to Fiji and that smuggling undermines the country’s revenue, which is essential for funding public services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Singh also urged operators of foreign vessels to be aware of and adhere to Fiji’s entry requirements, reinforcing that FRCS will maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards illegal activities at the nation’s borders.