APF given charge of customs check at TIA

A contingent of 30-Armed Police Force (APF) personnel, under the command of an inspector, has been deployed at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) to oversee customs checks.

The mobilization of the Armed Police Force (APF) in customs affairs aims to ensure effective customs checks and enhance security, said Dr Tokraj Pandey, the chief customs administrator of TIA.

"The decision to involve the APF in customs checks comes in response to the finance ministerial-level request and the decision of the Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. The APF personnel are working in five shifts on a daily basis to conduct customs checks at the airport," he added.

The move to seek direct supervision and involvement of the APF in customs duties is expected to improve airport security and facilitate more effective service delivery.