5.
Stringent measures to deter use of illicit fuel
The Customs & Excise Department is taking two stringent measures to deter drivers and car owners from using illicit fuel in view of the continuing rampant situation of such use and its impact on Government revenues.
"The first measure has been put into force since December 1996 which stipulates that a vehicle, if found to have used illicit fuel on a second time, will be impounded and subjected to forfeiture," said a spokesman for the Customs & Excise today (Thursday).
added.
The second measure would put into force on January 1, 1997, the spokesman
"Under such circumstances, when a driver or owner of a vehicle who commits an offence of using illicit fuel will be fingerprinted by the Police and will therefore have a criminal record upon conviction," he said.
In sentencing an offender, the court may draw reference to his previous convictions. The criminal record might affect the offender's future.
The spokesman urged vehicle owners and drivers not to use illicit fuel since the new measures would directly affect themselves.
"Instead of the small savings from using illicit fuel, they are facing the risk of having their vehicles forfeited and the charge of criminal offences which may carry a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment and a fine of $1 million." he warned.
citizen.
He reminded that the criminal record would also tarnish their status as good
The Customs & Excise Department had arrested 1,193 persons and intercepted 890 vehicles in relation to the use of illicit fuel in 1995.
In 1996, the number of arrests is 1.932 and vehicles intercepted is 1,509, including those which had their structures altered for illicit fuel smuggling.
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