The Tanjungpinang Customs and Excise Office clarified why the vessel KM Sunly 10 was allowed to resume operations following its temporary detention for carrying significant amounts of undeclared foreign currency. The incident, which involved the patrol vessel BC 20005 intercepting KM Sunly 10 in Bintan waters on September 10, 2024, highlighted issues regarding currency declaration to customs authorities.
The customs patrol encountered KM Sunly 10 traveling from Singapore to Kijang, Indonesia, with no declared cargo but carrying over Rp 100 million in foreign currency, which was not reported as required by customs regulations.
During a routine patrol, customs officials discovered the undeclared money aboard KM Sunly 10. The vessel was stopped for inspection, revealing the violation of currency transportation laws.
Faisal Rusydi from the Tanjungpinang Customs Office explained that the situation was managed according to the stipulations of PMK 100/2018, an amendment of PMK 157/2017, which regulates the declaration of large sums of money when crossing borders.
The vessel was allowed to continue operations after it was determined that the only violation involved undeclared currency. A financial penalty was imposed, which the vessel’s owner agreed to pay. The exact amount of the fine is determined by administrative sanctions for failing to declare currency amounts exceeding Rp 100 million.
Customs officials are holding the currency as a guarantee against the payment of the imposed fines, with further investigations ongoing to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
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Salikin, the owner of KM Sunly 10, stated his intention to settle the fines according to regulations. He clarified that the money belonged to several small-scale fishermen who had used his services for transporting fish to Singapore, emphasizing the operational nature of his business.
The incident with KM Sunly 10 serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to national and international regulations concerning currency transportation. The swift action by customs officials and the cooperation of the vessel’s owner highlight the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks in maintaining fiscal and legal order in maritime operations.
The resumption of KM Sunly 10’s operations followed a detailed inspection by Tanjungpinang Customs officials, who clarified the legal procedures concerning the undeclared foreign currency found on board. The vessel was allowed to continue after the owner agreed to comply with the administrative sanctions, reinforcing the importance of strict adherence to customs regulations.
