Karachi: Customs officials at Jinnah International Airport successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle silver bullion worth nearly PKR 5.9 million into Pakistan.
The operation was led by Deputy Collector Khizar Faiz, under the supervision of Collector Sadia Sheeraz, who has recently instructed strict monitoring of international arrivals to curb smuggling activities.
According to the First Information Report (FIR No. P-924/2026-JAP), the accused passenger, Ms. Ayesha Muhammad, a South African national, arrived from Johannesburg via Emirates flight EK-606. Acting on prior intelligence, a surveillance team comprising Preventive Officers Asfandyar Khan and Farooq Ahmed, along with Sepoy Jahangeer and Lady Sepoys Kaneez Fatima, Saba, and Nida Mumtaz, closely monitored her movements.
At approximately 2:00 AM, the passenger attempted to pass through the Green Channel but was diverted to the Red Channel for scanning. Upon personal search, six silver bars weighing one kilogram each were recovered from her trouser pockets. Her luggage was examined but found clear of contraband.
The seized bullion was later evaluated by a jeweler, confirming its weight and value. The FIR cites violations under multiple provisions of the Customs Act, 1969, the Import and Export Control Act, 1950, and the Baggage Rules, 2006.
The complainant, Preventive Officer Waqas Ahmed, formally lodged the FIR, and a notice under Section 171 of the Customs Act was served to the accused.
Collector Sadia Sheeraz emphasized that strict vigilance will continue at Karachi airport to deter smuggling attempts, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s economic interests.