KARACHI: The Customs officials have recovered a large number of mobile phones and anti-jamming equipment worth Rs1.55 billion after unearthing a misdeclaration case.
The seized items include 31,112 smart phones and around 5,000 sets of long-distance special mobile phone sets that could be used for cross-border communication and anti-jamming equipment.
According to official sources, the accused was trying to get the items cleared by showing them as refrigeration parts, dyes and garments. They said that the international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) of seized phone sets could not be traced out and could be used in terrorism activities.
The consignment arrived from Dubai in the first week of January at Karachi International Container Terminal and was later shifted to the off-dock station – Al-Hamad International Container Terminal (AICT).
The customs authorities were informed that the importers were planning to change the consignment contents with the connivance of the AICT and the customs staff deputed at the terminal.
The collector directed his deputy to raid the AICT where he saw that the cargo contents were already being changed. The staff had illegally opened 13 pallets without the collectorate appraisement’s permission.
The customs official found that the consignment had been misdeclared and sensitive electronic equipment, including special long-distance mobile phones and anti-jammers, were being cleared under the garb of refrigerator parts, dyes and garments. An FIR was lodged, but no arrest was reported till late into the night.
