ZRA seizes smuggled alcohol, cosmetics
By a Correspondent
THE Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has seized two trucks carrying smuggled alcoholic beverages and cosmetics with a revenue loss of over K4.9 million.
ZRA corporate communications manager Oliver Nzala said the interceptions were conducted when trucks used an unauthorised gate and route from the Chirundu One Stop Border, with the help of private security hired to secure the border premises.
Nzala said the first truck had an accident on the same route and was laden with assorted Alcoholic beverages, while the second truck was discovered to have used the same route following review of security footage and was intercepted by an officer in the local truck yards in Chirundu.
“The consignments and trucks have been seized for smuggling and conveyance of goods liable to forfeiture in line with the Customs and Excise Act,” he said.
Nzala said the revenue loss from smuggled alcohol was K4.1 million, while that of the cosmetics was K805, 000.
“The Zambia Revenue Authority would like to remind importers and transporters involved in similar schemes that they risk having their goods and trucks seized and forfeited to the state as well as face prosecution in the Courts of Law,” he said.
He warned that the authority would take decisive measures against smuggling and any illegal trade would be met with the full force of the law.
Nzala said ZRA had intensified patrols to ensure that the government was not robbed of the much-needed taxes through illegal imports.
“By taking decisive action against these fraudulent activities, the Authority aims to promote legitimate trade. All importers are encouraged to make correct declarations of goods being imported. Furthermore, the general public and transporters are encouraged to report any potential cases of smuggling to the Zambia Revenue Authority,” said Nzala.
