CANBERRA: The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service is continuing its crackdown on unscrupulous members of the international supply chain. Following warrant activity, ACBPS has in the past few weeks suspended a customs warehouse licence, a corporate customs broker licence, and three customs broker licences belonging to individuals.
In addition, on Tuesday 20 January 2015, ACBPS investigators executed warrants with the assistance of the Polaris Joint Waterfront Taskforce at an address in Lane Cove, NSW. Examination of evidence seized during those warrants is ongoing. The matters under investigation include the alleged delivery of imported goods without ACBPS authority, and alleged fraud associated with the embezzlement of Commonwealth revenue. ACBPS national manager special investigations and programmes Anthony Seebach said additional customs brokers may yet have their licences suspended or cancelled, and loss of work, pecuniary penalties or gaol time could be the result.
“The service is using its investigative capabilities to target high-risk elements in the supply chain; we are also appreciative of tip offs about dishonest behaviour from concerned and law abiding members of the trading community,” Mr Seebach said. “As we continue these investigations, it would be foolish to think anyone can wait us out or fly under our rada. “If you are aware of potential trade crime, you should call Customs Watch today on 1800 06 1800.” Any customs licensed entity unclear about their obligations under the Customs Act should consult the ACBPS website
