Man Fined $2,000 For Undeclared Astro Sets
By Malai FadleyRizal and Rol Ezam

Bandar Seri Begawan - A 57-year-old local was tined $2,000 or two months' jail in default for possession ofAstro sets without a licence and failing to declare the dutiable goods.

Magistrate Lailatul Zubaidah in the Bandar Courts heard that Hj Lamit bin Rakit did not know that it was an offence to import Astro sets without a licence and so did not declare the broadcasting apparatus.

However, to deter others from committing the same offence, the court decided to impose the fine on the defendant.

The defendant initially denied the two charges against him but decided to plea bargain during trial.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Dk Norsuzanawati Pg Abas told the court that the defendant came through the Kuala Lurah Control Post driving his car from Limbang on April 15, 2004 with his family.

As a routine, customs inspection was conducted at the control post which led to the discovery of the two units of Astro set in the boot and underneath the rear passenger's seat of the defendant's car.

The court also ordered the broadcasting items to be forfeited to the state.

Importing broadcasting apparatus into the country without valid licences is an offence which carries the penalty of imprisonment not exceeding three years, a fine not exceeding $40,000 or both.

Failing to make a declaration of dutiable goods is also an offence carrying the penalty of imprisonment for a year and a maximum fine of $40,000. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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