MULTAN: Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) has successfully conducted raids and impounded non-customs paid vehicles and goods worth Rs3.68 billion during first six months of economic year 2023-24.
Director General Customs Intelligence, Faiz Ali Chadhar, directed an intensified crackdown on smuggling activities, leading to significant seizures by the Customs I&I Multan team. Director Asif Abbas Khan and his team, including Additional Director Mumtaz Ali Raza and Deputy Directors Umair Zahid, held a media conference to share details of operations against smuggling in Multan, Faisalabad, Sadiqabad, and Dera Ghazi Khan. They highlighted the seizure of Iranian diesel, non-customs paid luxury vehicles, cosmetics, tyres, cigarettes, and various goods under the Customs Act 1969, totaling Rs3.68 billion.
The Customs Intelligence and Investigation Multan played vital role in safeguarding national interests through strategic operations. The recent aggressive crackdown targeted warehouses, uncovering non-duty-paid vehicles, and confiscating goods like diesel, cigarettes, tyres, betel nuts, and skimmed milk.
The commitment to zero tolerance against smuggling is crucial for trade integrity and national security. Customs Intelligence’s resolute stance sends a strong message, contributing significantly to deterring illicit activities. Collaborative efforts to curb illegal activities contribute to economic stability and national security.
The Director emphasized the effectiveness of intelligence-based actions, yielding fruitful results. Specially targeted crackdowns on cigarette traffickers led to the seizure of over 550,000 sticks of foreign brands, valued at Rs 143 million. Customs Intelligence, despite limited resources, confiscated more than 100 non-duty-paid vehicles from various regions.
Director General Faiz Ahmad Chadhar commended the successful raids in Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Faisalabad, Jhang, and Sadiqabad, expressing optimism for continued efforts against smuggling. Customs Intelligence Multan is actively investigating over 12 money laundering complaints, emphasizing the need to address these issues to safeguard the national exchequer.
Director Asif Abbas Khan affirmed the commitment to daily raids to curb smuggling, pledging to pursue smugglers until complete elimination. The ongoing efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy to enhance border control, contribute to economic stability, and protect national security.
