The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

AUTHORITIES have confiscated three high-end vehicles believed to have been stolen in the United States and smuggled here.

As part of a joint operation between the Customs Department and the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), a Mercedes-Benz, a Chevy Impala and Buick Regal were confiscated over the weekend.

During a press conference at the Customs Department yesterday, officials said they currently have no suspects in connection with the seizures.

The stolen vehicles were licensed and registered, raising concerns about possible corruption within local law enforcement agencies.

When asked about this, Customs Comptroller Charles Turner said he invites anyone with evidence implicating Customs officers to present the evidence to the authorities.

Mr Turner also said the authorities believe the people who were found with the vehicles were victims of fraud and not criminals.

He said while a valuation of the seized vehicles has not been performed, none of them is expected to be valued at less than $30,000.

He added: “The investigation is still ongoing. There is the belief that there are still more vehicles to be seized. Not only vehicles, but there is the smuggling of various high duty goods, namely beer, tobacco products, firearms and ammunition, and so we realise that once there is a market, smuggling will take place.”

Yesterday’s announcement of vehicle seizures came more than a month after the seizure of more than $200,000 in stolen vehicles, ammunition and electronics shipped from the United States.

Officials yesterday declined to say if the two operations are connected. A man was charged last week in connection with the ammunition seizure.

Mr Turner also urged residents to exercise due diligence when buying vehicles.

“Again, I would like to say to those members of the public who intend to purchase vehicles locally, especially those of a high end nature, to safeguard themselves before a purchase is made,” he said. “Individuals should check with the Customs Department in order to determine if the vehicle was stolen and the proper Customs duty would have been paid. The police department can also be contacted in order to determine if the vehicle would have been stolen.”