personnel, according to Collector of Customs Designate, Fostine DeSilva.

But Ms DeSilva pointed out that vacancies in junior level positions saw a much healthier response and could grow after possible promotions next month.

Meanwhile, she dismissed radio news reports that the Customs Department was deluged with hundreds of applications from Police officers. "I heard the radio news report that about 300 applications came in and that 100 to 200 of them were from Police,'' said Ms DeSilva. "That is not correct and nothing could be further from the truth, trust me.'' While admitting that Police often show an interest in switching to the Customs Department, Ms DeSilva said the actual numbers were far less than those reported.

While unable to give the exact figure, she said close to 200 applications were submitted. "But you will appreciate that a lot did not meet the basic requirement,'' she added. Of the 200 applications between ten and 15 were from Police officers.

Ms DeSilva revealed that a recruitment exercise in Customs has just been completed and that five names have been forwarded to the Public Service Commission.

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