Customs urges public not to undermine lawful enforcement duties

The Maldives Customs Service has called on the public to refrain from making statements or sharing content that creates negative perceptions about the agency's performance of its statutory duties.

The appeal follows social media posts circulated on Monday and Tuesday featuring a photograph of a Customs officer accompanied by commentary relating to the officer's official duties.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Customs said the inspection of goods, passengers and vessels arriving in the Maldives from overseas is a responsibility assigned to the agency under the law.

According to Customs, screening is carried out using facilities and equipment installed at ports and customs control points.

The agency said physical inspections of goods or passengers are conducted only when required on the basis of intelligence or operational findings, and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Customs said these measures are intended to prevent prohibited goods from entering the country and to protect public safety.

The agency reiterated that its border enforcement responsibilities are carried out within the legal framework and urged members of the public not to create doubt or negative perceptions about officers carrying out those duties.

The Maldives Customs Service regularly intercepts and seizes narcotics and other prohibited items smuggled into the country through air and sea entry points.