Customs officials intervened on the 2nd to thwart an attempt by businessmen to manipulate and acquire a stock of precious gemstones, valued at over Rs. 100 million, held in Customs custody.
A businessman had prepared to purchase the gemstones for Rs. 290 million during a tender process held the same day. However, the tender was canceled following allegations that undue pressure was exerted on another bidder, who had initially submitted a bid of Rs. 50 million, to withdraw from the process.
According to Customs sources, a team led by Deputy Director of Customs Seevali Arukgoda took swift action to cancel the tender, averting a potential government revenue loss exceeding Rs. 710 million. Officials confirmed that the decision was made under the authority of the Director General of Customs.
The gemstones, seized while being smuggled out of the country without declaration to Customs, were offered for sale through a public auction last week. Initial bids included Rs. 50 million from a businessman in Wellampitiya and Rs. 29.2 million from another party.
It was later revealed that the businessman who placed the highest bid of Rs. 50 million was coerced into withdrawing his offer in exchange for a Rs. 1 million bribe. Subsequently, the bidder submitted a written statement claiming he had mistakenly quoted Rs. 50 million and withdrew his bid.
With only one valid bid of Rs. 29.2 million remaining, Customs officials were compelled to cancel the tender based on a complaint received about these unethical practices.
Further complicating the situation, another businessman reportedly left the premises without finalizing the tender, allegedly asserting that he would resolve the matter through political influence.
Customs authorities emphasized that their prompt action not only prevented significant financial losses but also preserved the integrity of the process. The officials have since proposed re-evaluating the gemstones’ value and conducting the tender under the supervision of the Gem and Jewellery Authority to ensure transparency and fairness.
This decisive intervention highlights the vigilance of Customs officials in safeguarding national resources from exploitation.
