Smart phones worth Rs27.30 million were seized from the body and luggage of five PIA crew members arriving on Flight PK-222 from Dubai
By M Qadeer
LAHORE: In a major breakthrough, Pakistan Customs has successfully foiled two significant smuggling attempts, recovering high-value mobile phones worth PKR 44.67 million at Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore, and Multan International Airport, following the transformation plan introduced by Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mehmood Langrial.
The operation at Lahore airport took place on January 25, 2025, when Customs officials, under the supervision of Additional Collector Syed Ali Akbar Zaidi and Deputy Collector Dr. Muhammad Mudassar Rafique, intercepted a PIA crew member and a couple arriving from Abu Dhabi via Flight PK-264. A body search revealed 58 foreign-origin mobile phones valued at PKR 17.368 million. FIRs were lodged against the three accused individuals under the Customs Act, 1969, and the case has been handed over to the Investigation and Prosecution branch for further proceedings.
Similarly, on January 22, 2025, Customs officials at Multan Airport, led by Deputy Collector Ahmad Zaheer, seized 78 iPhones worth PKR 27.30 million from the body and luggage of five PIA crew members arriving on Flight PK-222 from Dubai. The smuggled goods were confiscated, and strict legal action is underway.
These operations, executed with the support of vigilant Customs staff, including Superintendents Imran Mirza and Babar Rehman, and Inspectors Kanwal Pervaiz and Rao Mansoor Ilahi, highlight the impact of recent reforms within Pakistan Customs. The restructuring of Customs Collectorates has strengthened enforcement capabilities, enabling authorities to dismantle smuggling networks effectively.
Officials emphasize that these actions reflect the commitment of the Customs department to curtail smuggling activities and protect the country’s economy.
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