KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has sought comments from the customs department on a constitutional petition filed by M/S Anwar Associates, seeking restoration of its ID blocked by customs officials due to its alleged involvement in Afghan Transit Scam. A two-member bench, comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Omer Sial, was hearing the application.
Earlier, counsel for the petitioner stated that it is engaged in Afghan Transit Trade as clearing agent and was never involved in any case. He argued that the petitioner always fulfilled his responsibilities but the customs authorities issued a show cause notice over his alleged involvement in Afghan Transit Scam. The petitioner filed replies in accordance with law and informed the authorities that he was never involved in any scam, however, the authorities refused to accept his pleas and blocked his ID without showing any lawful authority or reason.
On the last date of hearing, the court had issued notices to the customs authorities and deputy attorney general, directing them to file their respective para wise comments on the next date of hearing.
Citing Chairman Federal Board of Revenue, Collector of Customs Port Muhammad Bin Qasim , Deputy Collector of Customs Recovery, Collector of Customs Model Customs Collectorate Appraisement and others, counsel pleaded the court to declare the act of the respondents as illegal, mala fide and arbitrary.
He also pleaded the court may restore its ID immediately and restrain them from taking any coercive measures till final order in this petition.
