Even Downtown Duty Free shops have continuously reminding visitors of their obligations under the laws of Vanuatu.
The traditional red duty free bags for instance, clearly state this message to the passengers: “Customs duty has not been paid on the goods you have just purchased. They are subject to the control of Customs and must be exported. Customs infringements are subject to heavy penalties. In your own interests this package must remain sealed until you have departed from the last Vanuatu airport or port. If you leave the aircraft or vessel at any other Vanuatu airport or port, you may be asked to produce the goods for Customs inspection.”
Despite these continuous reminders and clear warnings, some people just don’t pay attention to them and are willing to take the risks. Unfortunately or fortunately, Customs has zero tolerance to ignorance of our laws. These two unfortunate passengers in this particular incident therefore had to pay the price so that the message can be sent out to everyone else to encourage voluntary compliance.
It is unfortunate that this has to happen during this time of disaster, where we need to encourage visitors to our shores, however they still need to abide by our laws.
