DUBAI: Customs authorities in Dubai foiled several attempts to smuggle rare animals, including stuffed crocodiles, birds, deer, falcons and stuffed foxes, into the country last year, it was announced here yesterday.
"Many of these articles are internationally banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and international laws," said Yousif Al-Sahlawi, executive director of Customs Policies and Legislations, at a press conference at the headquarters of Dubai Customs.
"Dubai Customs, being committed to international laws and agreements and the Common Customs Law of the GCC States, is always on the lookout for people attempting to bring into the country prohibited items, including endangered animals and manufactured products," added Al-Sahlawi.
Mohammed Al-Marri, executive director of Customs Cargo Operations, said, "Dubai Customs demonstrates special interest in combating the smuggling of prohibited and restricted goods, including endangered animals. To this end, a number of workshops for customs inspectors have been conducted."
"We use the latest technology and equipment available in the world to monitor entry of these items into Dubai and seek to develop an appropriate mechanism to curb smuggling of any restricted goods. We have circulated all relevant restrictions and controls to respective customs centers," he added.
By K.T. Abdurabb
© Arab News 2009
