Bermuda Customs is asking that the public be patient and cooperative when returning to the Island and being processed at the Airport.

After a letter to the Editor was published in Tuesday's Royal Gazette, Acting Collector of Customs Tracey Kelly issued a statement saying he is concerned that travellers seem to have issues with their inspection procedures.

The writer, Willow Moon Pearce, explained she had arrived back from the UK from attending her mother's funeral and was searched because the Police dog smelled medication in her bag.

She said she was asked if she had narcotics, had all the items on her removed and was interrogated about the medication even though she had a doctor's note.

Ms Pearce was also questioned about being in the UK seven days for her mother's funeral even though she produced a death certificate. "No airport has been a dread to me except Bermuda and as the tourists dwindle away to nothing I wonder why," she wrote. "I, of course, realise that Customs are necessary in this day and age but to walk away as if you have been treated like a criminal is too much."

Mr. Kelly said in the statement: "I am concerned that some returning travellers seem to be having issues with some of our inspection procedures. I want to assure the public that we take any concerns very seriously and will address any issues accordingly."

He continued: "In most cases, travellers are subject to routine questioning and baggage inspection that may delay them for a short period of time.

"These procedures are necessary, as we are required to safeguard and protect the Island in such diverse areas as Immigration, environmental protection, intellectual property, health and illicit drugs.

"While I encourage members of the public to exercise patience and cooperation when going though these checks, I also want to take this opportunity to remind persons entering Bermuda that it is their responsibility to provide the appropriate documentation to ensure an expeditious process."

He said there is a complaint system in place and if a member of the public wishes to make a complaint they can do so at www.customs.gov.bm. Members of the public can also speak to the manager on duty if they have concerns. Mr. Kelly explained Customs follows the best practices of leading international Customs administrations and each officer understands the sensitivity of dealing with members of the public on a daily basis.

For information on the new Customs allowances, the public is encouraged to visit www.gov.bm to learn about the new policies.