The Malta Chamber for SMEs has proposed that a force similar to Italy's Guardia di Finanza be set up to fight illicit trade and contraband.

The proposal was made after Customs Department officials found more than 10,000 litres of contraband diesel hidden in tanks during a search at a farm in the limits of Ċirkewwa earlier this week. A similar find was made at Xrobb l-Għaġin last week.

The GRTU said it was satisfied the authorities were taking the necessary steps against illicit trade. It added that such finds proved there was a sound basis for setting up a force similar to the Guardia di Finanza to deal with contraband wares.

The Guardia di Finanza is an Italian police force, under the authority of the Minister of Economy and Finance. It has military status and is part of the Italian Armed Forces.

Its duties include preventing, investigating and reporting financial evasions and violations and overseeing the compliance and provisions of politico-economic interest.

Appealing to business owners to help in the fight, the GRTU asked them to report any case of commercial abuse to the authorities.

It added that it regularly conducted exercises in petrol stations to make sure the use of contraband fuel was eradicated.

It also appealed to anyone noticing any illicit activity with contraband goods to call 2123 2881 or e-mail admin@grtu.eu.