He has told BBC Sandeshaya that he has ordered a halt to the investigations and also given instructions that any investigation should be completed and a decision given within three months.

Investigations into certain vehicles were ongoing for around one-and-a-half years.

This is a totally uncalled for situation from which neither the state nor the importer gains anything, said Perera.

790 vehicles released

However, secretary of the Sri Lanka Independent Government Trade Union W.R.P. Wijekoon says excepting 10, all the 800 vehicles imported by underestimating their values have now been released to the importers on personal bonds.

This is despite investigations to acquire around Rs. 4,000 million of customs tax due for the vehicles, he said.

The customs DG has given a written instruction to halt the investigations into the imported Benz, Audi, BMW and Range Rover vehicles, said Wijekoon.