The Customs Department has suspended the licences of several Ahmedabad-based customs house agents (CHAs) after probes revealed alleged financial irregularities, including manipulation of import and export valuations to claim higher Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) refunds, officials said.
Customs authorities found that low-value goods were allegedly declared at inflated prices, enabling firms to claim excessive IGST refunds. Following these findings, Ahmedabad Customs initiated action against the agents involved.
Multiple licences suspended
Officials said the licences of four Ahmedabad-based CHAs were initially suspended, with the action later extended to five more agents suspected to be linked to the irregularities.
Those whose licences have been suspended include Ishan Adhvaryu of Sai C-Air Logistics Private Limited; Nilay Choksi and Vijay Choksi of Pacifica Kaushal International; Vishal Panchal of C P Logistic Private Limited; and Startech Enterprise.
Senior officials alleged that these agents assisted companies in availing higher IGST refunds by overstating the value of imported goods.
Pacifica Industries case under probe
In a major case, the licence of Pacifica Industries Limited has been put on hold for its alleged involvement in the import of nearly 2,980 kg of heroin at Gujarat’s Mundra Port through Ashi Trading.
Customs officials said the investigation is ongoing and a detailed report is expected to be submitted by December 31.
Luxury furniture imports, DRI investigation
In a separate matter involving luxury furniture imports, customs authorities alleged that goods were under-declared by five to ten times. A show-cause notice has been issued to Shailesh Karamakar of Sai C-Air Logistic.
Officials claimed that brand names were concealed and values under-declared during imports made for Design Decode. The Mumbai unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) investigated the case and recommended action against those involved.
Alleged misuse of Advance Authorisation Scheme
Vijay Choksi and Nilay Choksi of Kaushali International are also accused of misusing the Advance Authorisation Scheme. Investigators alleged that polypropylene (PP) granules imported under the scheme were diverted, while exports were shown through a shell firm, Singhu Export.
The alleged diversion is estimated to have caused duty irregularities of about ₹1.68 crore.
Overvaluation cases, licence cancellations
Startech Enterprise has been accused of overvaluing export consignments, leading to the suspension of its licence. Separately, the customs broker licence of Vishal Panchal of C P Logistic was cancelled in connection with a Hazira Port case involving alleged overvaluation of goods.
Customs officials said investigations are ongoing in multiple cases, and inquiries have also been initiated against several chartered accountants linked to the alleged irregularities.