KARACHI: Collectorate of Customs Preventive, Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) foiled an attempt to smuggle 16.13 tons of smuggled betel nuts to Karachi from Okara. The value of the seized goods is Rs16.13 million, while the value of seized vehicle and container is Rs11.5 million.
Sources told that Collector Preventive Saquif Saeed received credible information that an attempt will be made to smuggle goods to Karachi from Okara.
He immediately directed Additional Collector Haroon Waqar Malik regarding movement of smuggled goods. Subsequently, on the directives of Assistant Collector Shafiullah, Superintendent Iftikhar Hasan enhanced surveillance near Gulbai Chowk. Subsequently, the suspected vehicle was intercepted. The driver of the vehicle Shafiq informed the container was loaded with sports goods, and one Asmatullah in Lahore had asked him to drive the vehicle and goods to Karachi Maripur Truck stand.
During thorough checking, the container was found loaded with smuggled betel nuts. The driver is arrested. Superintendent Jamal Zia lodged the FIR and investigations are underway.
Sources told that during another operations, 25.9 tons of smuggled betel nut, which was being transported to Karachi from Lahore in the garb of export consignment. The value of the goods is Rs25.98 million, while the value of transporting vehicle and container is Rs11.5 million.
