Smuggling of cars from Bhutan: Probe intensifies; ED, GST, and other agencies seek information from Customs

KOCHI: The investigation into the smuggling of luxury vehicles from Bhutan is intensifying, with Customs preparing to issue a notice to actor Dulquer Salmaan. Officials have warned that strict action will follow if valid documents are not produced. Among the vehicles seized from Dulquer’s residence- a Defender and a Land Cruiser- officials found that the Land Cruiser is not registered in his name. Efforts are on to trace the actual owner of the vehicle.

Apart from Customs, other agencies are also probing the alleged tax evasion in importing luxury vehicles into Kerala. According to reports, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) will check whether black money was involved in the deals. The ED has already sought details from Customs. The GST department is also conducting an inquiry into possible GST evasion.

Investigators have found fake documents related to vehicle transactions, especially RC books. They are also checking if criminal offences are involved in such frauds. Since some of the documents were allegedly forged in the name of various embassies, the central government will also be informed about the matter.