KARACHI: Customs officers’ association and Customs agents across Pakistan have expressed sadness and anger over recent statements made by Federal Minister Khawaja Asif and Chairman FBR Rashid Langrial.
An official stated that Minister Asif is unaware of the current situation, referring to practices from 10-15 years ago when postings were allegedly bought. The official emphasized that automation has since transformed the system.
Minister Asif claimed that corruption was rampant in Customs, with Collector postings sold for 300-400 million rupees, and Appraising Officers employing personal teams to facilitate corruption. Chairman Langrial also criticized the role of Customs agents.
Historically, postings in Quetta, Peshawar, and Appraisement South were considered lucrative.
However, high-profile and honest officers are now posted in these regions, including Collector SAPT Irfan Wahid, Collector Appraisement East Azhar Merchant, Collector Port Qasim Nayyar Shafique, and Collector Appraisement West Naveed Ilahi. Similarly, Enforcement Karachi, once a lucrative position, now has honest officers like Collector Moin-ud-Din Wani and Chief Collector Enforcement Basit Abbasi. In Quetta, Collector Enforcement Umar Shafique and Collector Appraisement Quetta Jameel Baloch are reputed officers. In Peshawar, Collector Mateen Alam and others are known for their integrity.
A senior Customs officer told Customnews.pk that while past practices were as the minister described, the situation has entirely changed. Officers are now posted after thorough due diligence and based on reports from sensitive agencies. The officer urged the minister not to damage the morale of Pakistan Customs, which is efficiently performing its duties and supporting the country.
Vice President FPCCI Asif Sakhi also expressed reservations about the statements made by Minister Asif and Chairman Langrial. He highlighted that Customs agents serve as a bridge between Customs and importers and are licensed by Pakistan Customs. While acknowledging that some agents might be involved in wrongdoing and should be brought to justice, he argued that labeling the entire fraternity as corrupt is unjustified. Sakhi noted that Customs agents have always cooperated with authorities and are more knowledgeable about laws and rules compared to importers.
The Customs Agents Association is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss the situation.
Asif Sakhi said labelling everyone a ‘thief’ will not serve any purpose. This is not the way to run a country. It is only earning a bad reputation for the country’s institutions in the world.