In a significant move to curb corruption and misuse of green channel status, Pakistani authorities have launched an unprecedented crackdown against several industries and companies. This action comes after it was revealed that many companies were abusing the green channel facility, granted under suspicious criteria.
Initiation of Crackdown
Acting on the directives of Chief Collector Enforcement Basit Abbasi, Collector Enforcement Moinuddin Wani, Additional Collector Basit Hussain, and Deputy Collector ASO Raza Naqvi, a highly reputed officer, the crackdown aims to tackle the misuse of green channel privileges. The enforcement teams are targeting means of smuggling, mis-declaration, and under-invoicing.
Super Audit Team Formation
In parallel, Chief Collector Appraisement South Jameel Nasir has taken a firm stance by forming a super audit team dedicated to scrutinizing green channel clearances. This move is a part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and accountability.
Case of Century Engineering Industries
A recent case underlines the severity of the issue. Century Engineering Industries (PVT) Limited, located at B-35 & 36, SITE-II, Superhighway, Malir Gadap Town, imported three consignments of reusable, old, and used battery accumulators disguised as waste and scrap. Upon receiving prompt information, a Customs team led by Deputy Collector Syed Muhammad Raza Naqvi intercepted the consignments at West Wharf Road near ICI Bridge at around 1:00 AM.
Discovery and Seizure
An individual identified as Sheikh Farid, Sr. Manager of the clearing agency M/s. Abdul Aziz Savul & Co (Private) Limited, was present during the interception. He initially claimed the containers contained waste and scrap of batteries. However, upon inspection, it was discovered that seven of the eight containers were loaded with old and used accumulators in good working condition, rather than scrap.
Further Investigation
The Customs team, in collaboration with IB officials, conducted a detailed examination at CPF Bond Maripur, Karachi. Representative samples were sent for testing to determine the health and usability of the batteries. The findings revealed that the batteries were functional, contrary to the declarations.
Legal Actions
All recovered batteries, along with the containers, were seized for violating multiple sections of the Customs Act, 1969, and the Imports and Exports Control Act, 1950. Notices were issued, and further investigations are ongoing.
This crackdown marks the first time in Pakistan’s history that such stringent actions are being taken against the misuse of the green channel, signaling a strong message of zero tolerance towards corruption and malpractice.