Romania Launches X-ray Scanners at Albiţa Border to Combat Tax Evasion and Drug Trafficking

In a significant move to bolster border security and combat illegal activities, Romania has introduced two X-ray scanners at the Albiţa border crossing in Vaslui. The launch event, attended by Finance Minister Marcel Boloş, marks a critical step in the country's efforts to reduce tax evasion and illegal drug trafficking.

The newly installed scanners, one fixed and one mobile, are part of a broader initiative funded by the European Union to enhance the capabilities of the Romanian Customs Authority. These devices are designed to improve vehicle control at the border, thus enhancing the security of the European Union's external borders.

Finance Minister Marcel Boloş emphasized the broader strategic goals of the initiative, stating, "Of course, we have a broader plan to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Customs Authority... we intend by the end of the year to have operational the digitisation project known as E-Signature, through which over 2,000 such mobile seals will be part of the institutional capacity building of the Customs Authority."

Why this matters: The launch of X-ray scanners at the Albiţa border crossing is a significant step in Romania's efforts to combat tax evasion and illegal drug trafficking, which can have far-reaching consequences for the country's economy and security. Effective border control can help reduce illegal activities, increase revenue, and improve overall safety and stability.

The Romanian Customs Authority plans to have nine of the 26 X-ray scanners, purchased with EU funds, operational by the end of the year. These scanners will be installed at the most critical border points across the country. The next phase of installations is scheduled for 2025 and 2026.

Marcel Mutescu, head of the Romanian Customs Authority, highlighted the expected impact of the new scanners, saying, "With this project, we hope to better and more effectively combat tax evasion, customs fraud, and find undeclared goods or other prohibited goods hidden in means of transport."

The scanners will use advanced risk analysis techniques to identify potential threats, thereby reducing waiting times at border crossings and improving overall efficiency. This initiative follows the successful installation of a similar scanner in May at Giurgiulesti, Galati County.

The implementation of these high-security devices required overcoming several infrastructure challenges, including the need for sufficient space in customs offices. Despite these challenges, the Romanian Customs Authority is committed to enhancing its operational capabilities and securing the country's borders.

Romania's introduction of X-ray scanners at the Albiţa border crossing represents a significant advancement in the fight against tax evasion and illegal drug trafficking. The ongoing efforts to strengthen the Customs Authority's capabilities will play a vital role in safeguarding the nation and the European Union's external borders.

Key Takeaways

• Romania introduces 2 X-ray scanners at Albiţa border crossing to combat tax evasion and drug trafficking.
• The scanners are part of an EU-funded initiative to enhance Romanian Customs Authority's capabilities.
• 9 of 26 X-ray scanners will be operational by the end of the year, with more installations planned for 2025 and 2026.
• The scanners will use advanced risk analysis to identify potential threats and reduce waiting times at border crossings.
• The initiative aims to strengthen border security, reduce illegal activities, and increase revenue for Romania and the EU.