BEWARE of buying “bargain” designer jewellery or clothing while on overseas holidays because they are probably fake and Customs could be forced to forfeit them.
That is one of the key messages from Customs officers this summer as Manx families make plans for their annual holiday trips abroad.
Warehouse Officer Ken Diack urged people to use their common sense. “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” he said.
Shoppers are also advised to be aware that legitimate purchases from international suppliers are often subject to import duties and VAT once the items arrive in the Isle of Man.
“For example, import taxes of up to 45% may be applied to clothing from America, so the original purchase may not turn out to the bargain it first appeared to be,” Mr Diack added.
Controlled drugs, firearms, weapons, counterfeit clothing, cigarettes and trinkets made from endangered species are just some of the items destined for Isle of Man addresses that have been seized by Customs officers.
Restricted or prohibited goods bound for the Island are intercepted during security checks at Post Office headquarters, where all packages from outside the UK are passed through an X-ray machine.
Examining international post is one of the many important law enforcement functions carried out by the Customs and Excise Division of Treasury as part of its contribution to community safety in the Island.
The Division takes a robust stance against any attempts to smuggle contraband goods into the Isle of Man – whether by post, courier or in personal baggage – and offenders can face criminal prosecution in the most serious cases.
Education is also a key element of its role in this field, with information and guidance available to the public on a wide range of issues such as import controls, licensing and duties.
Treasury Minister Anne Craine MHK praised the work of the Customs and Excise Division during a recent visit to Customs House.
After viewing a selection of confiscated goods, the Minister said: ‘This function of Customs and Excise is not particularly well known and yet the work they do to protect our community from illicit goods is extraordinary.
“Most people think their role is largely to safeguard us from the importation of drugs, but it extends far beyond that to the most vicious of weapons and attempts to undermine local retailers through the importation of fake goods from unlicensed operators.
The Minister added, “I was shocked by the quantity and diversity of goods seized. We are very lucky to have such a vigilant body working on our behalf.”
Most of the restricted or prohibited items seized in the mail by Customs and Excise have been ordered via the internet or purchased by local residents whilst on holiday and posted back to the Isle of Man.
Ken Diack added, “It’s amazing what people will try to have mailed to their homes. We’ve had everything from knuckle-dusters and air rifles to counterfeit handbags and articles made from ivory.’
Individuals who have an item seized by Customs staff have a right of appeal under legislation that also makes provision for a local review by a senior officer or a court hearing if necessary.”
However, in most cases seized goods are safely destroyed after 60 days.
Mr Diack explained that the process is completely transparent and encouraged people to seek advice if they had any questions about customs rules or were at all uncertain about bringing specific items into the Island.
“We frequently receive enquiries regarding tobacco allowances, which generally apply only when an individual is travelling abroad and bringing products back into the country in person. There is no allowance for tobacco products sent through the post from the EU,” he said.
For further information about restricted and prohibited items, or duties and rules relating to importing goods into the Isle of Man, please contact the Customs and Excise Division on 648100, email customs@gov.im or visit the website http://www.gov.im/treasury/customs/
