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Jamaica Observer
Posted: 5/11/2009 1:37:42 PM
SINGER Alaine Laughton has been fined over one million dollars for breaching the Customs Act.
Named in a statement by Customs today, Laughton had imported a damaged 2007 BMW 530i motor car with a declared value of US$8,915FOB (freight on board).
However, a subsequent investigation revealed that the value was understated. Customs then seized the vehicle and imposed a penalty of $1,388,000, three times the duties avoided, for breaching sections 209 and 210 of the Customs Act.
Laughton has since paid the penalty and additional duties to allow the return of the vehicle.
She has also apologised to Customs for the breach, claiming that the car was imported in her name but that she was univolved with the shipping or clearance of the vehicle.
Meanwhile Commissioner of Customs Danville Walker has urged importers, to honestly declare the value of goods. “The Customs Department has up to two years to determine the authenticity of the amount declared and the importer will be liable for any penalties and possibly the forfeiture of the item after the penalties have paid. These rules will be applied without fear or favour,” said Walker.
Posted: 5/11/2009 1:37:42 PM
SINGER Alaine Laughton has been fined over one million dollars for breaching the Customs Act.
Named in a statement by Customs today, Laughton had imported a damaged 2007 BMW 530i motor car with a declared value of US$8,915FOB (freight on board).
However, a subsequent investigation revealed that the value was understated. Customs then seized the vehicle and imposed a penalty of $1,388,000, three times the duties avoided, for breaching sections 209 and 210 of the Customs Act.
Laughton has since paid the penalty and additional duties to allow the return of the vehicle.
She has also apologised to Customs for the breach, claiming that the car was imported in her name but that she was univolved with the shipping or clearance of the vehicle.
Meanwhile Commissioner of Customs Danville Walker has urged importers, to honestly declare the value of goods. “The Customs Department has up to two years to determine the authenticity of the amount declared and the importer will be liable for any penalties and possibly the forfeiture of the item after the penalties have paid. These rules will be applied without fear or favour,” said Walker.