KARACHI: In a significant victory against the illegal trade of smuggled goods, the Customs Enforcement team in Karachi executed a successful raid on the Star City Mobile Market, located in Saddar. This operation marks the second phase of the ongoing anti-smuggling campaign, initiated under the guidance of Chief Collector Basir Abbasi.
Acting on credible intelligence provided by Collector Moin Wani and Additional Collector Basit Hussain, the Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) team of the Collectorate of Customs (CoC) Enforcement, Karachi, launched the operation at approximately 3:30 PM on February 19, 2025. The raid targeted multiple warehouses suspected of housing smuggled mobile phones and other electronic goods.
The operation concluded at 8:00 PM, resulting in the seizure of a substantial quantity of contraband items. Among the recovered goods were over 2,500 used mobile phones, more than 350 tablets of various brands, AirPods, Meta Quest VR headsets, SmartWatches, German-made Marshall Amplifiers, and other miscellaneous items such as Indian-origin Gutkha and liquid vape flavors. The estimated value of the seized items exceeds Rs. 100 million.
The confiscated goods have been transported to the Custom House Karachi for detailed examination and further legal proceedings. A comprehensive inventory, listing the quantities, models, and brands of the recovered items, is expected to be completed within the next three to four days.
During the raid, a large crowd gathered at the market, creating a potentially volatile situation. Despite the challenging circumstances, the Customs Enforcement team displayed exceptional professionalism and bravery. They managed the situation effectively without requiring assistance from external law enforcement agencies.
Deputy Collector Reza Naqvi was particularly commended for his exemplary leadership and diplomacy. His tactful handling of the crowd and the operation ensured the safety and success of the raid. “Masha’Allah, DC Reza Naqvi’s bravery and diplomacy were instrumental in the operation’s success,” stated a spokesperson from the Customs Enforcement team. “Conducting this raid without the proper contingent of Rangers was indeed dangerous, and his leadership was commendable.”
Chief Collector Enforcement praised the performance of Reza Naqvi and his team, highlighting their dedication and courage in the face of potential danger. The successful raid serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Karachi Customs Enforcement to curbing the trade of smuggled goods and ensuring the enforcement of Pakistan’s stringent anti-smuggling policies.