Circular No. 63 dated 12^th November 2001

I am directed to invite your attention to a case of seizure effected on 9.6.2001 by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) of foreign currency from post parcels meant for export to Hong Kong out of New Delhi.

2.      Abuse of postal facilities to smuggle contraband and restricted items is a matter of concern. It appears that Foreign Post Officer are increasingly being used for smuggling of items such as integrated circuits, watch movements, cordless phones, narcotic drugs, other consumer/ electronic items etc.. The case cited above of seizure of foreign currency from export postal parcels indicate a new modus- operandi. These developments indicate a need to exercise great care in clearance of postal parcels by making a thorough examination of suspected packages.

3.      In view of the foregoing, you are requested to alert all subordinate Customs formations handling clearance of post parcels against the possibility of such attempts for smuggling. Supervisory controls need to be strengthened and intelligent scrutiny has to be ensured while selecting packages for examination. Documents such as Customs Declaration, Parcel Bills etc., should be scrutinised very closely. The bonafides of persons importing or exporting the parcel; the origin and destination of the parcels, its physical dimensions, etc, should be taken note of before allowing clearance of a package. Without detailed physical examination of contents, X-ray machines should also be installed and used for screening of post parcels where a large number of such parcels are being handled. In any case, 100% opening of such parcels is not practically advisable. For this purpose, the concerned Commissioners may send suitable proposals to the Commissioner, Directorate of Preventive Operations for purchase and installation of X-ray machines, if these are not already under consideration.

4.      You are requested to take necessary action in the matter. Receipt of this letter may please be acknowledged.