KATHMANDU, July 20: The Department of Customs (DoC) has formed an investigation committee after the seizure of a large amount of gold that was cleared by the customs office at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
Punya Bikram Khadka, director of the department and information officer, informed Republica that the investigation committee was formed under the leadership of Man Bahadur Paudel, the director of the Department's investigation branch.
DoC using ‘human error’ excuse to shield suspicious employees
According to him, the committee will prepare a report after detailed investigation about those involved in smuggling the gold that was brought secretly, hidden in brake shoes.
Similarly, the DoC has also prepared to suspend the employees involved in customs inspection. “The department has asked for the names of those involved in the inspection of motorcycle and scooter brake shoes,” Information Officer Khadka said, “After studying the list of all the employees, the process of suspension will be carried forward to help the investigation committee based on the involvement of those employees.”
On Wednesday, about one quintal of gold was seized by a team of the Department of Revenue Investigation when it was about to be taken to a taxi after passing through the customs of the airport. Six people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the gold smuggling case.
