MULTAN: The Collectorate of Customs, Enforcement, Multan has intensified its anti-smuggling operations against illegal goods and vehicles in the country, as part of the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) drive to curb smuggling activities.
According to a press release issued by the Collectorate, smuggled goods worth Rs.482.28 million were seized during the month of January 2024, which is a 17% increase in value compared to the same period of the previous fiscal year. The seized goods include non-duty paid (NDP) vehicles, carrier vehicles, petroleum products, mobile phones, food items, cigarettes, betel nuts, tyres, and other miscellaneous items.
The Collectorate also reported a 146% increase in the number of anti-smuggling cases registered in January 2024, as compared to January 2023. A total of 96 cases were registered, involving 50 vehicles and 46 other goods.
The Collectorate, under the leadership of Collector Syed Imran S. Bukhari and Additional Collector Mr. Shah Faisal, has vowed to promote legal trade and discourage illegal businesses using smuggled goods. The Collectorate has also given special attention to the seizure of NDP vehicles, which are often used for criminal or terrorist activities. A total of 41 NDP vehicles worth Rs.283 million were seized in January 2024, which is a 95% increase in number and an 89% increase in value compared to January 2023.
The Collectorate has also generated revenue of Rs.566.68 million through administrative measures such as auction, currency deposits, and encashments. Moreover, the Collectorate has issued strict instructions to its anti-smuggling formations, including mobile squads and airport staff, to keep a close watch on the illicit movement of essential goods, Iranian petroleum products, currency, gold, and mobile phones.