A new inspection process for shipping containers leaving Cayman’s port has been introduced in an effort to clamp down on the export of stolen goods.
From Oct. 1, anyone sending goods overseas using shipping agencies must have their packages inspected at the port by Customs officers.
Currently, shipping agents are able to bring pre-loaded containers to the dock for export, making it easier for criminals to off-load stolen property without scrutiny.
In July, enforcement officers seized six shipping containers at various locations across Grand Cayman during a series of raids. The containers were loaded with property believed to have been stolen in break-ins across the island.
Many of the containers were kept on vacant lots and reportedly loaded over the course of several nights in readiness to be shipped off the island for sale.
Samantha Bennett, the collector of Customs, said the new policy would help prevent that from happening and would also improve safety.
“Customs has decided to implement this new procedure to help with the issue of dangerously packed containers which can be hazardous for Customs inspection purposes, and to curtail the growing problem of stolen goods being shipped overseas via consolidated container shipments,” said Ms. Bennett.
“This new procedure will allow for a more detailed customs inspection, and we are confident this closer scrutiny of goods for export will help decrease the growing problem of thefts and burglaries on-island in the long run.”
The new procedure does not extend to major traders and customs brokers but applies to individuals intending to export personal goods using shipping agencies, Customs officials said. People will be required to have their goods inspected by Customs officers at the Cargo Distribution Center, after which Port Authority staff will load the inspected goods onto shipping agents’ containers specifically placed on the CDC ramp. The goods will not be loaded unless inspected by Customs, officials insist.
Direct deposit of goods at CDC will be verified by Customs officers during normal working hours (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Documents must also be presented to port staff to sign off on all goods received, Assistant Collector Jeff Jackson said.
The collector can relax the new requirement by permitting anyone who meets specified conditions and restrictions, including major traders and Customs brokers, to package containers elsewhere.
Customs officials are also reminding shipping agencies and anyone in the trade of shipping consolidated goods overseas using shipping containers that they need a current, valid trade and business license for this purpose. They are also required to register with the Customs Department as shipping agents.
More details at www.customs.gov.ky.
Related Videos
One department that deserves every cent they receive on pay day is the Customs Department. In few words, they work and hard too. I support Ms. Samantha Bennet to the fullest in her endeavor to combat this growing problem which has been rampant from the day after Hurricane Ivan. Someone has to put a stop to Cayman being soft target for every bug that crawls. Since the past ten years half of Cayman has been hauled away in containers to countries all over the globe, leaving people astonished after missing everything that could move from bucket to bath pan.. Being aware of this, the only thing it reminded me of was a big crime Cartel ring.
Finally some good news about Customs. I have to agree with Twyla at least they are doing their part and Kudos to Ms. Bennett.