Dec 01 - HM Customs Strengthens Border Controls As Operation Comet Starts
HM Customs is strengthening border controls as part of Operation Comet. The objective of this operation is the collection of import duty and the enforcement of prohibitions and restrictions, particularly regarding fireworks, during the weeks leading up to Christmas and the New Year.
Increased Officer presence at the land frontier will ensure that proper Customs clearance procedures are maintained and that adequate facilities are in place to cope with the extra volume of coaches and private vehicles coming from shopping in Spain in the build-up to Christmas.
Passenger declaration forms have been distributed to all tour operators and these should be completed prior to the coach’s arrival. These will not be a requirement for private vehicles.
HM Customs says that Gibraltar Defence Police FX dogs will be operating at the border in a committed attempt to enforce the prohibition of illegal imports of fireworks. The public is advised to purchase British Standard approved fireworks that have been legally imported and are available locally.
HM Customs says it will endeavour to keep disruption to the public to a minimum whilst maintaining efficiency in the process of collection and law enforcement.
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