Official Notice: Border Protection Measures Concerning Hashish and Cannabis Seeds (Seizure240119)
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official regulation concerning the seizure of illegal substances at the border, specifically focusing on hashish and cannabis seeds. This notice aims to inform the public and relevant stakeholders about the legal framework, procedures, and implications related to such seizures, as well as to reinforce the importance of compliance with national drug control laws.
Scope and Purpose of the Regulation
This regulation, titled "Border Protection - Seizure of Hashish and Cannabis Seeds," was enacted following a seizure conducted by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Section (CANS) on 23 January 2019. The primary objective is to prevent the illegal importation and distribution of controlled substances, including cannabis-related products, which are prohibited under the Misuse of Drugs Act and related legal provisions.
The regulation applies to all border control activities conducted by customs authorities, including parcel inspections, to intercept illicit substances before they enter or leave the territory of Mauritius. It emphasizes the role of customs officers, sniffer dogs, and forensic testing in identifying and seizing illegal consignments.
Key Provisions and Procedures
Seizure Operations
- Customs officers are authorized to examine parcels and mail addressed to or originating from Mauritius, especially those flagged during routine checks or by intelligence sources.
- In the event of suspicion, officers may use sniffer dogs and field testing kits to identify substances such as cannabis seeds or hashish.
- If illicit substances are detected, they are to be seized immediately and documented according to official procedures.
Handling of Seized Items
Seized substances, including cannabis seeds and hashish, are to be securely stored and handed over to the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU) for further investigation and legal processing. The regulation mandates meticulous record-keeping of all seizures, including details of the consignments, suspects (if identified), and evidence handling.
Legal Implications
Under the current legal framework, possession, importation, or distribution of cannabis seeds and hashish constitute offences punishable by law. The regulation reinforces the authority of customs officers and law enforcement agencies to pursue offenders and impose penalties in accordance with the Misuse of Drugs Act and related legislation.
Impact on the Public and Stakeholders
This regulation serves as a reminder to the public and importers that illegal substances are actively monitored and intercepted at the borders. It underscores the importance of compliance with national drug laws and the consequences of attempting to smuggle controlled substances into Mauritius.
Citizens are encouraged to participate in the national effort to combat drug trafficking by reporting suspicious activities through official channels, such as the Stop Drug platform or by contacting the dedicated helpline at 8958. Such cooperation is vital for maintaining border security and public safety.
Summary of Recent Seizure (24 January 2019)
In a recent operation, authorities seized two unclaimed envelopes at the Parcel Post Office containing:
Fill in your form directly online
No printing: type your details into the boxes of the official form, tick, then download the PDF ready to send.
- 1Type into the form boxes
- 2Tick in one click
- 3Save and download the PDF
- Nine cannabis seeds
- Sixty grams of hashish
The total value of the confiscated items was estimated at nearly Rs. 200,000. The envelopes were addressed to residents of Quatre Bornes and Vallée Pitot, respectively. The detection was facilitated by sniffer dogs and confirmed through field testing, leading to further investigation by the ADSU.
Contact and Further Information
For additional details regarding border protection measures, legal procedures, or to report illicit activities, individuals can contact the Mauritius Revenue Authority through the following channels:
- Telephone: +230 207 6000
- Fax: +230 207 6033
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.mra.mu
This official notice highlights the ongoing commitment of Mauritian authorities to uphold drug laws and secure the borders against illegal drug trafficking, ensuring a safer environment for all citizens.