CUSTOMS agents in Madang boarded a foreign vessel and impounded several undeclared goods on Monday which they believe the crew attempted to smuggle into the Ramu nickel mine.
But the customs agents, mostly women based in Madang, were threatened by the Chinese crew of the vessel, who attempted to stop them.
Customs boss Gary Juffa yesterday confirmed the seizure and the alleged threats made by the crew.
The goods seized included electrical goods, over 30 cartons of cigarettes and more than 30 cartons of whiskey and beer.
Acting commissioner general of the Internal Revenue Commission Betty Palaso said in a statement that following the crew’s aggressive behaviour, police were called upon to assist the customs agents board MV Wei Sheng, which was ordered to berth at the Madang wharf.
The search took place following a tip-off.
The vessel was allowed to proceed to Basumuk to unload cargo for the nickel mine, operated by a Chinese company.
The vessel will return to Madang where its crew face possible charges.
Mr Juffa said the crew members face being charged with obstruction of duty, and for attempting to smuggle undeclared goods into the country.
Meanwhile, Ms Palaso also confirmed the seizure of undeclared cigarettes in a 40-foot container which originated from Dalian, China, in Port Moresby on Monday.
The cigarettes were concealed in baby diaper cartons.
A major retail group in Port Moresby is under investigation in connection with this container of cigarettes.

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