Four individuals including three customs officials and a businessman in Phuentshogling are detained by the Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation regarding a series of bribery cases at the Mini-Dry Port. The commission started the investigation after being alerted about possible bribery and extortion practices at the MDP and other designated areas in July this year.
The ACC launched the investigation when there was heightened concern about the surge in COVID-19 cases despite the town being under strict lockdown.
In one case, two individuals teamed up to venture on supply of betel nut business. They established links with customs officials and bribed them to evade sales tax. The bribe ranges from Nu 10,000 to Nu 80,000 per instance. The duo were also involved in smuggling of tobacco products.
The commission found customs inspectors involved in soliciting bribes from importers and suppliers in a more discreet way. They were found using bank account of acquaintances and business people to blend their money with normal business related financial activities.
The investigation team also found a vehicle dealer involved in evasion of green tax while bringing in dumper trucks. The commission is further investigating the cases in Phuentshogling.
Meanwhile, ACC didn’t find any corruption in the management and allocation of quarantine facility here.
Sonam Penjor, Phuentshogling
