The tractors had already taken export permit from Raxual-based Indian customs office three months ago but couldn't be brought to Nepal through the main customs point due to the ongoing protest and obstruction caused by the agitating Madhesi parties, according to Dinesh Shah who imported the tractors. Shah, a representative of Umesh Iron in Bardibas, informed that they were forced to bring those vehicles via sub-customs office after failing to obtain clearance from the main border check point for such a long time.
Police informed Republica that they took control of those vehicles as they did not have any documents. The drivers have been absconding, according to the police.
“The police, deployed at the sub-customs point, found five tractors after receiving information about illegal entry of some goods via Sirsiya,” SP Raju Babu Shrestha of Parsa, said. “Nobody is allowed to use that route for importing goods. And those vehicles didn't have any papers.” He added that bringing trackers in such a way is 'illicit trade'.
On the other hand, the importers have claimed that they were in process of obtaining clearance from the customs for those vehicles. Importer Shah claimed that police took control of the vehicles while being taken to customs office for clearance. “Birgunj customs informed us that we should bring the vehicles to match engine and chassis number for the clearance papers. Therefore we were forced to bring those vehicles via sub-customs at night due to the fear of protestors,” added Shah.
The police have informed that they are forwarding the case to regional customs office in Pathalaiya for further investigation.
Information Officer at Birgunj Customs Office said that five percent customs tax is liable on tractors.
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