Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 10, 2021 (SKNIS): Since the introduction of a new system at the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA), in relation to the examination of cargo, allegations of missing goods have been reported. This was addressed by Joseph Wilson, Seaport Manager at SCASPA during his September 08 appearance on Working for You.
“From since the implementation of the pre-examination process which is a process that was put in place to reduce contact with the general public, we have had some hiccups,” said the Seaport Manager.
During the pre-examination process, the cargo is examined in the presence of a SCASPA representative, a Customs representative, and a representative from the agent.
Mr. Joseph noted that SCASPA launched an investigation into the allegations, however, challenges arose regarding their validity. He said that there were instances where persons did not properly declare items on one hand and on the other hand, family members would have communicated that they had forgotten to pack certain items that were claimed to be missing. The Seaport Manager indicated that once an item is not declared it is considered a false declaration.
He said that SCASPA is working assiduously to minimize the claims.
“As we go forward… we are working with not just Customs but with all of our stakeholders to ensure that these incidences do not occur. At the moment, we have installed additional cameras, we have moved our examination area from where we had it initially to a more controlled and enclosed area,” he said. “The Customs Department, those officers are also wearing bodycams so when these allegations or claims come to us we are better equipped to properly investigate these claims.”
Mr. Joseph said that everything that is being done is a collaborative effort with the Customs Department as both institutions work hand in hand.
