MULTAN: Directorate of Customs Intelligence & Investigation (I&I), Multan, has firmly denied allegations of misconduct and retaliation, as reported in Dawn on August 16, 2024, claiming the story misrepresents key facts surrounding the suspension of Sepoy Aamir Shabbir.
In a comprehensive statement, the Directorate refuted claims that Shabbir was penalized for whistleblowing, instead emphasizing his suspension was due to clear violations of conduct rules.
According to the Directorate, Shabbir’s suspension followed an incident on July 18, 2024, where he reportedly disrupted operations at the Deputy Director’s office by making loud demands for immediate approval of an NOC for ex-Pakistan leave.
“The actions of Shabbir were unbecoming of a civil servant and necessitated disciplinary action under the Civil Servants (Efficiency & Discipline) Rules, 2020,” said a senior official. The Directorate further clarified that the suspension had no link to the Public Interest Disclosures Act, 2017, countering the narrative suggested in the Dawn report.
The Directorate also addressed accusations that Shabbir was punished for filing a complaint against his superiors, alleging their involvement in smuggling activities. Highlighting its robust anti-corruption efforts, the Directorate pointed to recent successes in seizing large quantities of contraband, including narcotics, non-duty-paid vehicles, and electronics. “Our record speaks for itself. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, and any claims to the contrary are baseless,” the official asserted.
Further details revealed that Shabbir has a history of filing complaints and legal challenges, many of which have been dismissed as frivolous. The Directorate noted that Shabbir has previously been arrested on corruption charges by the Federal Investigation Agency, adding context to his current legal battles and public allegations.
The Directorate called for responsible journalism, urging media outlets to prioritize accuracy and fairness in their reporting. “While we respect the critical role of the media, it is vital that reports are based on verified facts rather than speculation,” the statement concluded.
As the controversy continues, the Directorate’s firm stance underscores its commitment to upholding discipline within its ranks while challenging what it views as a misguided and misleading report.
Customs Directorate provides a deeper understanding of the complexities behind the ongoing dispute, highlighting the fine line between accountability and maintaining institutional integrity.
