With a controversial letter circulating on social media regarding the confiscation of gold jewelery seized by the head of customs on the request of MP Vajira Abeywardena, the customs has stated that anyone can directly or indirectly appeal to the customs regarding the confiscation of any item.Sri Lanka Latest News
In an inquiry to Customs Media Spokesman Senior Director Sudatta Silva, he has stated that MP Vajira Abeywardena did not exert such pressure or influence on the Chief of Customs, but a formal appeal has been made to the Chief of Customs.
A woman who was coming to Sri Lanka in February was arrested by the customs at the Katunayake airport terminal for trying to illegally carry six gold bangles and two gold necklaces worth more than 15 million rupees.
During the customs investigation, it was determined that the woman had brought the goods illegally, and the goods were ordered to be confiscated with a fine of Rs.
However, the woman later informed the Abeywardena MP about this, and it is reported that the MP brought it to the attention of the Finance Minister, President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
According to the order of the President, Parliamentarian Abeywardena has submitted an appeal to the Deputy Commissioner of Customs regarding the gold ornaments, and the case has been forwarded to the Customs Appeal Committee, according to the Customs Media Spokesperson.
On the recommendations of the Customs Appellate Committee, the Head of Customs had ordered to return the gold jewelery to its owner subject to payment of due tax.
The spokesperson added that anyone can file an appeal with the Director of Customs if they feel that the order passed during a customs investigation is not fair and there is due process to recover the seized or confiscated goods.