Tobacco smugglers charged

(CNS): Two airline workers and one passenger have been charged with evading customs duty after their failed attempts to smuggle seven cartons of cigarettes into the Cayman Islands on their arrival at Owen Roberts International Airport last month. Two women, aged 21 and 35, and a 26-year-old man were all arrested in a targeted operation by officers from the customs department at the end of May over a three day period and the cigarettes seized. The three suspects in the alleged tobacco smuggling ring were all charged on Friday 13 June and they have been bailed to appear in Summary Court on Tuesday, 24 June. Deputy Collector of Customs Marlon Bodden said the case was of particular concern because of the smugglers' access to restricted areas.

“We sincerely hope that the message will soon reach the right ears, and those involved in this type of illegal activity clearly understand that HM Customs is serious about dismantling this type of organized activity,” the customs enforcement boss stated. “While we understand on the big scheme of things the quantity of smuggled items may be small, it’s the principle that matters. It is very concerning that trusted and authorized persons within restricted areas are engaging in such actions.”

Anyone with information relating to this type of crime is asked to contact H.M. Custom’s tip-line 1-800- 534-8477 or email: tell.us@customs.gov.ky.