Customs officials in Uruguay recently uncovered a sneaky online scheme. This operation illegally sold popular sports clothing and shoes. It marks the second major bust of its kind in just a week.
The National Customs Directorate (DNA) brought down this hidden business. Investigators found the sellers used identity cards from more than 50 different people. They processed about 200 illegal shipments in the past ten months. These shipments brought goods into Uruguay through the postal service.
Officials raided a location in Montevideo after their investigation. They seized a large amount of sports apparel and footwear. The value of these items was roughly 1.5 million pesos.
The trick centered on a special customs rule. This rule lets individuals import up to three packages a year. Each package can be worth up to $200 without paying import taxes. However, selling these items once they enter the country is strictly forbidden. The people behind this scheme broke that key rule.
This phantom store had no physical shop. It ran entirely online using a website. The operators advertised their products heavily on social media. They delivered orders in Montevideo. Packages for other parts of the country went out by standard parcel service.
The person responsible now faces serious charges. They could be charged with smuggling. Identity theft is another potential crime. This individual has been called to appear before the 2nd Turn Economic Crimes Prosecutor’s Office. Customs also plans to start a separate legal process. This will help them collect unpaid taxes and related financial penalties.
Just last week, a similar operation was shut down in Maldonado. That case involved even more stolen identities, over 60 of them. It facilitated more than 250 shipments over the last year. Those shipments contained tools and hardware items. Both cases clearly violated the country’s postal franchise system.