Pakistan Customs recently intercepted a significant smuggling operation in Karachi, confiscating over 10,000 mobile phones valued at Rs302.4 million and 15,000 tobacco flavors worth Rs30 million. The items were disguised as car coolant, highlighting the lengths smugglers go to evade detection. This seizure underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in curbing illegal trade activities.
Deceptive Tactics Uncovered
Customs officials discovered the smuggled goods concealed in boxes labeled as car coolants. The importer had misdeclared the items to avoid scrutiny. However, during a routine search of a truck previously cleared by customs, the scam was exposed. This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and thorough inspections in combating smuggling operations.
Deputy Collector’s Statement
Deputy Collector Customs, Syed Muhammad Raza Naqvi, revealed that a private company attempted to deceive authorities by misdeclaring the goods. He confirmed that all seized items have been confiscated, and a case has been filed against the importer under the Customs Act. An investigation is ongoing to ensure further legal action is taken against those involved.
Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission Steps In
Earlier, the Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission summoned six customs officers from the Karachi Customs Collectorate on March 3. These officers are under scrutiny for their alleged involvement in a vehicle smuggling case. The summoned officials include Additional Collector Wajid Zaman and Assistant Collectors Usama Dastagir and Fahad Khan, among others.
Allegations Against Customs Officers
The customs officers and personnel are accused of collaborating with private individuals to run a vehicle smuggling network. Notably, the driver of Asif Hargan, a special advisor to the finance minister and former collector, has also been called for questioning. These allegations raise concerns about internal corruption within customs departments.
Prime Minister’s Directive to Combat Smuggling
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed all relevant government agencies, including the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Customs, to implement strict measures to combat smuggling. This directive aims to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure accountability within these institutions to prevent further illegal activities.
New Measures Introduced by FBR
In response to the Prime Minister’s directives, the FBR has introduced a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO). This order grants authorities the power to confiscate vehicles and other means of transport used for smuggling. The move is expected to deter smugglers and enhance the effectiveness of anti-smuggling operations across the country.
Significance of the Seizure
The seizure of 10,000 mobile phones and 15,000 tobacco flavors is a significant achievement for Pakistan Customs. It not only prevents a substantial financial loss to the national exchequer but also disrupts the operations of smuggling networks. Such actions reinforce the importance of stringent customs checks and enforcement.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Steps
Authorities are continuing their investigations to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network. Legal action will be taken against all individuals involved, including the importer and any customs officials found guilty of collusion. These efforts aim to restore public trust in customs operations and ensure transparency.
Conclusion
The recent seizure by Pakistan Customs highlights the ongoing battle against smuggling in the country. With new measures in place and increased scrutiny, authorities are stepping up their efforts to curb illegal trade. However, addressing internal corruption and ensuring accountability remain critical to achieving long-term success in this fight.
