The importers have been told to pay a Rs. 3.2 million fine if the vehicles were to be cleared for release.

However, they say that even with the increased tax, they should pay only Rs. 1.2 million more.

When asked, Customs authorities told Sri Lanka Mirror that the cars had been undervalued when imported.

Importers note that the maximum value of a vehicle that can be imported by duty free permits is 35,000 US dollars.

The vehicles have been imported as per that value limit, and have not been undervalued, they say.

Customs officers get most money

They also note that if they pay a Rs. 3.2 million fine, Customs officers will claim 30 per cent as information share and another 30 pc, while the state will be left with only 40 pc.

Even if they accept undervaluation and pay the fine, they can be prosecuted under the money laundering act, say legal experts.

We will make a detailed revelation in this regard soon.