Custom authorities seize Anil Ambani's jet

New Delhi, July 16 : The government has issued a notice to seize Anil Ambani's aircraft for alleged customs duty evasion, sources said.

Customs issued the notice for an estimated Rs 150 crore Global 5000 Bombarider plane belonging to the Reliance Transport and Travels Private Limited for over Rs 37 crore as duty.

Tightening grip on corporate India for alleged customs duty evasion, till now, the authorities have seized about ten aircraft obtained by corporate entities, including a Mukesh Ambani group firm, GMR, Oberoi and Indiabulls under non-scheduled operator permit, but later released the same on bank guarantee and bonds.

ADA group firm Reliance Transport and Travels clarified immediately that though it had done no wrong, but it offered a voluntary bank guarantee and indemnity bond, a move spurned by the customs on the ground that without issuance of seizure notice no such offer can be accepted.

Customs Department is scrutinising over 250 corporate jets, including those belonging to Tatars, DLF and Raymonds.

A spokesperson of Reliance Transport and Travels said that "RTT is a valid NSO permit holder and has responded and furnished full and comprehensive documentation regarding its aircraft."

"RTT further informed the customs that it has complied with all existing rules and regulations," spokesperson said.

ANI