KARACHI: The Customs Court sent suspect namely Umer Asif son of Asif Shakeel to central jail Karachi on judicial remand and directed investigation officer to complete investigation and submit a progress report for next date of hearing, suspect was booked for smuggling of Vodka, Black Label etc.
On 6 April 2022, during the hearing, investigation officer of anti-smuggling organization (ASO) re-produced the above mentioned suspect before the court and informed that on a credible information, customs officials intervened Toyota Hilux Vigo bearing registration number KS-7710.
He further informed the court that during the search, recovered 36 bottles of Black Label valuing of Rs. 540,000. 10 bottles of Gold Label valuing of Rs. 200,000. 36 bottles of Chivas Regal valuing of Rs. 540,000. 18 bottles of Absolute Vodka valuing of Rs. 216,000 and 12 bottles of Tequilla valuing of Rs. 180,000.
He argued that during the proceedings, suspect was asked to produce lawful documents of import or etc, however, he failed to produce any lawful documents, therefore, customs officials seized above mentioned goods and suspect also was arrested.
He stated that prosecution needs further investigation for further evidence collection, however, customs court sent suspect to jail and directed investigation officer to complete investigation and submit progress report for next date of hearing.
According to the prosecution, case was registered for violation of under section 2(s) 15, read with section 157(2) and 178 the customs act, 1969 punishable under clause (8) of section 156(i) ibid.