Are we having a theory of mind moment here? People that bring excess personal belongings get an ATA Carnet. How is a custom's person supposed to know that he doesn't intend to sell this equipment. Do you think that people smuggling electronics haven't played the "oh you don't understand it cost 40 bucks at this pawn shop here is a photo of the receipt on my phone". The only think that was a possible shakedown was the estimated price of the imported goods. Every country does that too. Try getting something from aliexpress and the seller classifies it under a non fee'd category to dodge import cost. If a random inspection catches it you will get taxed out the ass.
Also your link doesn't work.
Bosses not boss. Blaming lower command is the batarang in a corporation's utility belt.