On Nov 2, a 31-year-old returning Singaporean was referred to Singapore Customs after officers at Changi Airport Terminal 4 found 105 One Piece trading cards worth an estimated $400,000 in his baggage, despite his declaring that he carried only two cards.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority detailed the incident in a Nov 6 social media post, saying officers directed the man to the baggage screening area and asked if he had anything to declare. He replied that he possessed only two pieces of trading cards.
AsiaOne reported that during the screening, anomalies appeared in one of the bags, prompting a thorough check by ICA search and examination officers that uncovered the 105 assorted cards and a luxury branded bracelet.
GST Relief Caps at $500 for Trips of 48 Hours or More
ICA reminded travelers to declare and pay duty or GST on newly acquired items exceeding the duty-free concession and GST import relief. Singapore residents who have been overseas for at least 48 hours are eligible for GST import relief capped at $500 of the total goods value, whereas those abroad for under 48 hours may claim relief of up to $100. GST is calculated on the amount that exceeds the relief.
Fines Can Reach 20 Times the GST Amount
Travelers unsure about what to declare should proceed to the Red Channel or the Singapore Customs Tax Payment office. Not declaring goods or submitting an inaccurate declaration for non-dutiable items can lead to penalties reaching 20 times the GST owed.
Questions Travelers Ask About This Seizure
How many cards did the traveler declare versus what was found?
He declared two pieces of trading cards, but officers found 105 pieces in his baggage, according to ICA.
What other item was found in the baggage?
Officers discovered a luxury branded bracelet alongside the trading cards during the thorough check.
Where at Changi Airport did this occur?
The incident took place at Terminal 4, where officers directed the man to the baggage screening area on Nov 2.
The 31-year-old man was referred to Singapore Customs for further investigation.
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