LAHORE: Pakistan Customs has seized smuggled goods and articles of worth Rs 5,328.83 million during 2012-13, which is Rs 424.08 million more against Rs. 4,904.75 million in 2011-12, official data disclosed. Similarly, the customs department confiscated contrabands worth Rs 5,501.89 million during 2010-11; Rs 4,928.95 million in 2009-10; and during 2008-09, the authorities seized contrabands worth Rs 1,858.9 million.
Top customs officials said that the fact regarding increase in smuggling of various items or otherwise at entry points cannot be ascertained as there is no mechanism to measure the real quantum of smuggling.
They added the main source of smuggling of goods into Pakistan is through, long porous border with Afghanistan and Iran, adding that Pakistan Customs operates at check posts on authorized routes only and the designated Customs Stations at the borders.
The officials said to curb menace of smuggling, Pakistan Customs has reinvigorated its enforcement measures which include intelligence sharing, launching of joint operations and provisions of support and facilitation to the Customs authorities by the Law Enforcement Agencies.
Anti-smuggling powers have been given to Pakistan Coast Guards as well as Pakistan Maritime Security Agency to check smuggling in the coastal area and high seas. Furthermore, major entry points, smuggling routes in the country are being monitored by check posts manned by Pakistan Customs with assistance of law enforcement agencies.
