Destroyed billions of rupees contraband and illegal goods and articles on World Customs Day
By M Qadeer
Lahore, Pakistan — The World Customs Organization (WCO) has dedicated 2025 to enhancing efficiency, security, and prosperity in global trade. Pakistan Customs has firmly aligned with this vision, underscoring its pivotal role in protecting the nation’s economic borders. Senior officials from Pakistan Customs, along with key stakeholders, gathered at Lahore Customs Public School and Kattar Band Road to showcase their ongoing efforts, emphasizing the dedication required to combat smuggling and safeguard the nation’s economy.
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Basit Maqsood Abbasi, Chief Collector of Customs Enforcement, addressed the gathering, highlighting Pakistan Customs’ remarkable success despite limited resources. He noted that the commitment to countering smuggling was unwavering, and recognition for Pakistan Customs’ efforts was on par with any major institution in the country.
Advisor to the Prime Minister, Rana Ahsan Afzal, saluted the dedication of Pakistan Customs, recognizing its central role in the country’s economic stability.
He spoke of the government’s ongoing commitment to Customs reforms, including the newly launched Faceless Clearance system.
Afzal credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his decisive intervention in Pakistan’s policies, which averted a national default and set the country on the path to economic sustainability.
He reaffirmed that Pakistan Customs would continue to play a vital role in protecting the nation’s borders.
Rubbab Sikandar, Chief Collector of Customs Punjab, expressed deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of the Customs officers, staff, and clearing agents. Sikandar emphasized that Pakistan Customs would not be as effective without the dedication of its team members. She recognized the exceptional performance of the Customs Appraisement Punjab and thanked her colleagues, including Collector Beelum Ramzan, Mehreen Nasim, and Rizwan Basharat, for their contributions.
The Customs Agents Association, led by Chairman Ch Amjad, was also honored for its continuous support to Pakistan Customs. Certificates and appreciation shields were awarded to importers, exporters, and Customs staff who contributed significantly to the country’s trade facilitation and border security.
Customs destroys contraband in high-profile operation
In a significant demonstration of its zero-tolerance policy toward smuggling, Pakistan Customs officials conducted a high-profile operation where contraband was destroyed publicly. The operation, led by Basit Maqsood Abbasi and Saeed Watto, saw the destruction of thousands of illegal items, including 6,618 bottles of liquor, cartons of Chalia, 900 cartons of cigarettes, and large quantities of unapproved mobile phones, China salt, and opium. The contraband was set on fire in front of Customs officials and the public, showcasing the force’s commitment to upholding the law and safeguarding national interests.
Saeed Watto, Collector of Customs Enforcement Lahore said, “We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of enforcement and border security. We will continue to tackle smuggling with zero tolerance and work tirelessly to safeguard Pakistan’s economic borders. Our efforts will not only protect national security but also facilitate legitimate trade and strengthen the economy. The fight against illicit activities is an ongoing one, and we are fully dedicated to upholding the law for the prosperity of our country.”
Additionally, Collector Customs Airports, Tayyeba Kayani, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in the fight against illegal smuggling. In a remarkable feat, she single-handedly led the operation that resulted in the seizure of over 90 percent of the total illicit liquor intended for destruction. This operation, which targeted significant quantities of contraband, is estimated to be worth over 25 crore rupees. Her relentless efforts not only showcase her commitment to upholding the law but also her pivotal role in safeguarding Pakistan’s borders and ensuring that illegal trade does not undermine the nation’s security and economy.
