Tales of a Customs Officer – Brian Topping 

The first Monthly Meeting of the New Year had an exceptionally large audience and what a banger of a start! 
Brian shared with members his extensive insider knowledge of the structure and dimensions of the role of a Customs Officer, with anecdotes of the extraordinary lengths taken by those aiming to beat and cheat the system.  

Stories ranging from an individual smuggling in Irish Poitin in the guise of Holy Water to the world-wide multi-billion drug manufacturing and distribution empires, were told by Brian with huge wit and charm. He outlined the characteristics that make for a good customs officer, observation skills; ability to read the context of the traveller, how their ticket was paid for, the suitcase used, their personal effects, the route taken, are all key factors in the follow up of intuition.  

In addition to his many tales illustrating the ingenious methods used by the smugglers – the use of off putting creatures such as Giant African Land Snails sitting over a false bottomed case for example – Brian also pointed out the highly dangerous aspect of a job dealing with ruthless crime gangs and how world affairs and regime changes could affect the flow and entry of drugs into the UK. 

It was altogether a fascinating talk, presented with such flair and humour that members will be eagerly awaiting the Part Two that is promised.