MRA seizes 4 buses from Vitsitsi

Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) on Thursday seized four buses from Blantyre-based businessman identified as Benson Vitsitsi for allegedly using fake papers to import the vehicles.

MRA Head of Corporate Affairs, Steven Kapoloma has confirmed the siezure, saying Vitsitsi presented false or falsified documents during clearance of the four buses contrary to the provisions of the Customs and Excise Act.

“Bank documents presented to MRA by Mr. Vitsitsi, purportedly being remittance documents to the supplier of the buses in China, are allegedly to have been false or falsified,” said Kapoloma.

Currently, the four buses are being kept at MRA’s offices in Lilongwe and Blantyre as the Authority conducts further verification exercise regarding the allegation.

In May this year government introduced 16.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on imported minibuses and big buses three years after it scrapped it off following recommendation by operators.

In 2014 national budget, government removed the Import Duty, Import Excise and VAT on imported minibuses which eased a tax burden on operators and importers.

The VAT will be applicable on minibuses and buses manufactured within a period not exceeding five years. The introduction of the VAT is one of amendments made to the Customs and Exercise (Tariffs) Order.