Maldives Customs Service is investigating a case of unauthorised release of goods from a bonded warehouse.
The case involves cigarette cartons stored at a bonded warehouse in Male’ City. In a social media post, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihsan revealed that Customs and Maldives Police Service (MPS) are investigating the case.
In his post, the Minister explained that bonded warehouses have long been operated out of various houses and apartments in Male’ City. While these facilities typically have two locks, where the key of one remains with Customs, the bonded warehouse in question was also located at a Male’ house, the Minister said.
According to the Minister, the warehouse was under the custody of Customs. However, the owner had begun using the premise for other purpose. Once authorities were alerted to the situation and the misuse was verified, the owner was instructed to pay duty charges for all goods recorded as stored at the facility, he revealed, adding that MPS and Customs are investigating the case, and will pursue legal action where necessary.
The Minister highlighted safety and control concerns of operating bonded warehouses out of apartments and homes. He said the Government has now decided that bonded facilities can only be operated from locations under the full control of Customs.