UP customs officials under scan for allegedly releasing seized tomatoes

Lucknow: A group of customs officials in Uttar Pradesh has come under scrutiny after allegedly releasing three tonnes of seized tomatoes worth 4.8 lakh rupees. The tomatoes, which were smuggled from Nepal, were intercepted near Nautwana during a joint operation conducted by the local police and Shastra Seema Bal (SSB).

According to official reports, the police had initially seized the tomatoes and subsequently handed them over to Customs for proper disposal as per the regulations. However, it appears that the goods were improperly released by the officials and later apprehended by the police, triggering an ongoing investigation into the conduct of six customs officials.

Aarti Saxeena, the Customs Commissioner of Lucknow, has confirmed that the implicated officers, who were stationed in the border region, have been recalled and transferred to the headquarters pending the investigation. This incident has raised concerns about the integrity and efficiency of the customs department in curbing illegal activities and protecting the country's economic interests.

Consumers are grappling with skyrocketing prices, with tomatoes reaching an astounding 160 rupees per kilogram. In stark contrast, the same produce costs a mere 62-69 Indian rupees per kilogram in Nepal, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Under existing regulations governing perishable smuggled goods, such items are required to be destroyed within 24 hours of seizure. Additionally, an SSB officer highlighted the importance of producing a certified copy of duty payment for the entry of goods into the country. District authorities have set a limit on the entry of goods valued up to 25,000 rupees to curb illicit activities.

Speaking on the matter, a customs officer recalled past instances of seizing Chinese apples and emphasized their commitment to combating illegal trade. Nichlaul SFO, Anand Kumar Gupta, clarified that they have the authority to seize various items, including jewellery, foreign currency, and electronic goods if they are found to have been acquired without paying the requisite duty.

Furthermore, he highlighted their jurisdiction to confiscate cigarettes and alcohol under the NDPS Act.