Customs boss hits back at detractors for ‘misrepresentation’

Customs Commissioner Wade Smith has accused his detractors of presenting alternative facts, following criticisms of his agency’s recent crackdown on companies that fell afoul of the territory’s maritime regulations.

Her Majesty’s Customs (HMC) fined several companies, including the popular Moorings and Sunsail hundreds of thousands of dollars in an operation that saw well over 100 boats being detained for various infractions.

In a statement issued yesterday, March 24, Smith said he has heard the criticisms about the detention of vessels that were operating without safety certificates and licenses and said he welcomed discussion with respect to the topic and any opposing views.

However, the Customs boss argued that even the most cursory research on this issue would dispel myths or overt misrepresentation that was being circulated.

“Unfortunately, too frequently in our territory objections are raised with no regard to any legitimate basis. In essence, people create their own ‘truth’, or as one American politician coined it, ‘alternative facts'”, Smith stated.

He added: “It is also a shameful reality that these hasty and spontaneous reacts are rooted in self-serving agendas, political ambition, or ignorance.”

Smith said that as head of Customs and the Joint Task Force, he recommends that everyone consider the foundational basis for his agency’s actions before regurgitating unsubstantiated information.