The import and export operation at Noi Bai International Airport. Photo: N.L

In 2021, the volume of passengers on exit and entry has plunged due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the quantity of imports and exports has still surged. The smuggling and illegal transportation of goods via air has taken place in a sophisticated manner, posing many unpredictable risks.

According to the branch, smugglers have transported goods via express delivery service. In addition, some enterprises have falsely declared the name of goods to be classified into the Green and Yellow channels to outsmart the customs officers.

Facing this situation, the branch has developed and launched plans to enhance the efficiency of the fight against smuggling and trade fraud; and planned to supervise and control targeted flights at Noi Bai International Airport.

In 2021, the branch fined 158 cases worth about VND1.2 billion, handled 11 cases of smuggling and illegal transportation of goods and cash across the border gate, prosecuted three cases and transferred two cases to the police for prosecution.

Specifically, it transferred a case of transporting of 166kg of turtle shells and a case of illegal transportation of drugs.

The branch has prosecuted the case of transporting of used goods which was handled in January.