KARACHI: Pakistan Customs has imported two latest surveillance boats worth Rs 300 million from Turkey to prevent smuggling in the open sea.
Collector (Preventive) Dr Iftikhar Ahmad has said that the parts of boats were being fitted with equipment at Karachi Shipyard and would be handed over by February next year.
He said the second boat would be added to the fleet by March 2018. The boats will be equipped with modern technology including water jet engine. “The boats will increase efficiency and outreach of customs officials”, he noted.
A marine department has been set up where trained staff would be deployed for smooth operation of boats. “We have written a letter to the FBR for allocation of funds in the next budget for the maintenance of the boats”, Dr Iftikhar said, adding that the international agencies have been approached for allied equipment or more boats and for training of the staff.
He informed that navy and Coast Guards have been approached for training of customs officers.
