Chennai-based trading or logistics firm Wintrack Inc has publicly accused Chennai Customs officials of systematic harassment and bribery demands. Asserting that customs authorities retaliated after the company exposed earlier alleged extortion attempts. In a video posted by its CEO, Wintrack claims customs officials demanded bribes repeatedly at one point allegedly asking for Rs 8 lakh in connection with a small shipment and that their refusal led to punitive actions such as shipment delays, reassessments, and procedural hurdles. As a result, effective October 1, 2025, Wintrack announced a complete suspension of its import/export operations within India.
What customs officials said?
In response, Chennai Customs vigorously dlenied the corruption claims, calling them “serious and false.” The department contends that Wintrack’s practices involved misdeclaration or misclassification of goods specifically pointing to undeclared USB charging cables (which were not listed in the commercial invoice or packing list) found during physical inspection, violating Section 111 of the Customs Act, 1962. Customs also insisted that Wintrack failed to supply valid EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and Legal Metrology documentation, which are mandatory for goods with built-in rechargeable batteries. Furthermore, the customs authorities asserted that the importer has a pattern of publicizing corruption allegations selectively removing posts once factual counter-evidence is presented.
Why government orders probe?
The Ministry of Finance has taken note, ordering the Department of Revenue to conduct a “fair, transparent, and fact-based inquiry” into Wintrack’s claims. A senior officer has been deputed to oversee the investigation, with directives to hear both Wintrack and customs officials, and review documentary evidence. The Finance Ministry described the matter as being dealt with “utmost seriousness.”
Social media campaign #MyCustomsStory
Meanwhile, Wintrack’s case has struck a chord across trade, logistics, and e-commerce sectors. After the allegations surfaced, many in the import/export community came forward to share similar experiences, prompting the social media campaign #MyCustomsStory. Some commentators view this as a test of whether the government will act decisively to protect businesses against alleged extortion in India’s trade infrastructure.