Customs seize 6 Prima containers

The Customs have suspended the release of six container loads of goods imported by Prima Flour Company, and launched an investigation .

According to reports, the goods have to be taxed, although they had been imported under the duty-free category.

The BOI said that the state has lost Rs. 1.8 billion in tax revenue since 2001 due to such imports by producing bogus documentation.

Attempts by 'Lanka Dissent' to reach Customs Officer Saman Silva who has led the raid, were unsuccessful.

Customs Director General Sarath Jayatilake too, was unreachable, as an official at his officer said he was at a meeting that would end around two hours time.

When reached, top BOI officer Kulasekara asked media to call him again three hours later, as he was busy at a meeting.

According to its agreement with the government, Prima can bring in wheat and wheat flour free of import levy.