Government Loses K215, 000 To Smuggling Of Shoes, Slippers
Government has lost revenue amounting to K215, 000 due to smuggling of goods into the country by Dronewave Investments Limited, that attempted to evade customs duties by declaring lower-duty items.
Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has since intercepted 1,643 boxes of slippers and shoes which were smuggled into the country.
According to ZRA Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala, the fraudulent shipment, intercepted yesterday 25th November 2024, was declared as containing shoe soles, glue and shoe heels.
“However, upon physical inspection, authorities discovered that the truck was purely carrying undeclared shoes and slippers. 1, 295 boxes of slippers and 348 boxes of shoes were not declared, respectively. In this case, this translates to 46, 620 pairs of slippers and 8,280 pairs of shoes being smuggled into the country.”
“The attempt by Dronewave Investments Limited to evade customs duties by falsely declaring lower-duty items resulted in a revenue loss of K215,000 to the Government of the Republic of Zambia,” Mr. Nzala revealed.
He said this translates to 46, 620 pairs of slippers and 8, 280 pairs of shoes being smuggled into the country.
Mr. Nzala warned importers and agents involved in similar schemes that they will face severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential prosecution.
“Agents found to be involved in such illicit practices will also have their licenses revoked. By taking decisive action against these fraudulent activities, the Authority aims to protect legitimate businesses and ensure fair competition.”
“ZRA officers are on high alert to curb smuggling and illicit trade by unearthing of various tax fraud schemes to enhance tax compliance,” he cautioned.
He also advised taxpayers to comply with tax laws in order to avoid punitive enforcement measures including prosecution.
‘Members of the public are also urged to volunteer information to ZRA about anyone involved in smuggling or tax evasion activities,” Mr. Nzala said.
