Pakistan Customs has made significant strides in curbing smuggling activities, with two major smuggling attempts foiled recently at Lahore and Multan International Airports. These successful operations, which resulted in the recovery of high-value mobile phones worth PKR 44.67 million, come as part of a broader transformation plan spearheaded by FBR Chairman, Rashid Mehmood Langrial.
On January 25, 2025, Customs officials at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore successfully intercepted a PIA crew member and a couple who had arrived on Flight PK-264 from Abu Dhabi. Under the supervision of Additional Collector Syed Ali Akbar Zaidi and Deputy Collector Dr. Muhammad Mudassar Rafique, a body search was conducted that revealed 58 foreign-origin mobile phones, valued at PKR 17.368 million. The phones were concealed on the individuals’ person, and as a result, the authorities lodged FIRs against the three suspects under the Customs Act of 1969. The case has now been handed over to the Investigation and Prosecution branch for further legal proceedings.
Just a few days earlier, on January 22, 2025, a similar operation at Multan International Airport resulted in the seizure of 78 iPhones worth PKR 27.30 million. The smuggled goods were discovered on five PIA crew members who had arrived on Flight PK-222 from Dubai. The confiscation was carried out under the supervision of Deputy Collector Ahmad Zaheer, and the phones were seized from the individuals’ luggage and person. Customs officials have initiated strict legal actions against the suspects involved in this smuggling attempt.
Both of these successful interceptions highlight the effectiveness of the recent reforms and restructuring within Pakistan Customs, which have significantly strengthened the enforcement capabilities of the department. The new approach, aimed at modernizing and revitalizing the Customs Collectorates, has empowered Customs officials to identify and dismantle smuggling networks more efficiently. Customs staff, including Superintendents Imran Mirza and Babar Rehman, along with Inspector Kanwal Pervaiz, have played pivotal roles in ensuring the success of these operations.
The recovery of these high-value items has not only helped protect the national economy from illegal trade but also demonstrated the growing impact of the transformation plan led by the FBR. The authorities emphasized that these operations are just a part of the ongoing effort to tackle smuggling and other illegal activities that undermine the country’s economic growth.
Pakistan Customs officials have reiterated their commitment to taking all necessary measures to combat smuggling and enforce the law, ensuring that those who engage in illegal trade face the full force of the law. By continuously improving their operational strategies and enhancing coordination among various departments, Pakistan Customs aims to deter illegal imports and strengthen the nation’s economic security.
The customs department is determined to keep up the pressure on smugglers and illicit traders, ensuring that the country’s borders remain secure from illegal goods and activities. The success of these two major seizures is seen as a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to bolster Pakistan’s defenses against smuggling while safeguarding legitimate trade and commerce.
