Customs urges to refrain from acts casting doubt on duties after defamation of female staff

The Maldives Customs Service, on Tuesday, has appealed to the public to refrain from engaging in actions that could cast doubt on the institution's legal mandates and responsibilities.

The appeal follows recent reports circulated on social media concerning the institution's legal responsibilities. In this regard, photographs of a long-serving female Customs officer were shared across social media platforms alongside serious allegations.

On Monday, several Customs employees and members of the public expressed their support for the officer. Many stated that an officer carrying out their lawful duties should not be subjected to public harassment or exposure.

In a press statement on Tuesday, Customs clarified that the inspection of goods, passengers, and vessels entering the Maldives is a responsibility exclusively assigned to the institution under the Maldives Customs Act. The statement further noted that the various resources available at ports and within the service are utilized to perform these functions.

"When physical inspections of goods or passengers are required based on information received and other findings, such searches will be conducted in accordance with the law and established regulations," Customs stated.

Furthermore, the agency emphasized that inspections of goods and passengers are conducted based on information and intelligence gathered by the institution. Under the Customs Act, Customs is fully authorized to inspect every vessel, shipment, and piece of passenger luggage entering the country.

Accordingly, Customs urged all parties to refrain from actions that could create public doubt or promote negative perceptions regarding the institution's fulfillment of its legal duties and responsibilities.

The Maldives Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to continuously strengthening border control measures and preventing the illegal importation of prohibited items.

Notably, North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo), filed a case with the police on Monday, requesting an investigation into the harassment and defamation of working women on social media and in public spaces.