KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to the customs authorities and deputy attorney general on a constitutional petition filed by M/s R.K Shippers Karachi against lodging of First Information Report (FIR) and imposition of penalty.
While hearing the petition, a two-member bench, headed by Justice Munib Akhtar also directed them to file their respective para wise comments on the next date of hearing. The court also adjourned the hearing for August 29, 2017.
Earlier, counsel for the petitioner stated in its constitutional petition that petitioner is engaged in the lawful business of import of ceramic tiles and always fulfils all the liabilities.
He further informed the court that petitioner never involved in any criminal case and having good record in market.
Counsel argued that in the rotten petitioner had imported eight containers of ceramic tiles from China and filed goods declaration according with law, however, petitioner was informed by the officials of the customs department that customs authorities have registered first information report (FIRs) against several importers and imposed penalty against the customs clearing agents without shown any lawful reason.
He stated that petitioner produced all the relevant record before the concerned authorities, however, customs officials starting proceedings and harassing the petitioner illegally and mala fide intention.
Citing Chief Collector of Customs Collectorate West and Chairman Federal Board of Revenue as respondents, counsel pleaded the court may declare that act of the respondents is illegal, mala fide and arbitrary.
Petitioner also pleaded the court may restrain them from taking any coercive action against the petitioner.
After the hearing court directed to customs officials to ensure file their respective para wise comments on next date of hearing.
