ZRA seizes undeclared goods worth K215,000 in smuggling bust

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has reportedly intercepted a truck carrying undeclared goods worth K215,000 in a suspected smuggling attempt.

The shipment, initially declared as shoe soles, glue, and shoe heels, was found to contain 1,295 boxes of slippers and 348 boxes of shoes, reportedly equivalent to 46,620 pairs of slippers and 8,280 pairs of shoes.

ZRA Manager for Corporate Communications, Oliver Nzala, stated that the shipment, owned by Dronewave Investments Limited, was an alleged attempt to evade customs duties, resulting in significant revenue loss to the government.

“The attempt 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,” Nzala said.

He warned that importers and clearing agents engaging in similar schemes risked severe penalties, including hefty fines, license revocation, and prosecution.

“By taking decisive action against these fraudulent activities, the Authority aims to protect legitimate businesses and ensure fair competition,” Nzala added.

The ZRA is said to be enhancing efforts to combat smuggling and tax fraud, encouraging taxpayers to comply with laws and urging citizens to report suspected smuggling or tax evasion cases.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.