Release of assets (machines) seized by the Customs Authorities ...

Machines Lawfully Seized by Customs Before Insolvency Process; Ownership Transferred to Government, Confiscation Upheld.

April 22, 2024

Case Laws     Insolvency and Bankruptcy     AT

Release of assets (machines) seized by the Customs Authorities before initiation of CIRP - The tribunal found that the goods were lawfully confiscated under the Customs Act before the initiation of the CIRP. Therefore, the goods were no longer the property of the Corporate Debtor by the time the RP sought their release. It was noted that the order for confiscation was made after a proper show-cause notice and was not contested by the Corporate Debtor at that time. - The tribunal clarified that the ownership of the confiscated goods vested with the government immediately upon confiscation, irrespective of whether the redemption fine was paid. The option to redeem the goods by paying the fine was a separate matter that did not affect the fundamental status of ownership transfer upon confiscation.

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