PCOA says sweeping remarks against Customs service hurt integrity of honest officers serving on frontline of anti-smuggling and revenue enforcement
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Customs Officers Association (PCOA) has strongly reacted to remarks attributed to former State Bank Governor and ex-IBA Dean Dr Ishrat Husain, terming the allegations against Customs officers “highly irresponsible, unsubstantiated and damaging to a national institution performing critical economic and enforcement functions.”
In a detailed press release and legal notice circulated to media organizations, the Association categorically rejected a viral statement allegedly made by Dr Ishrat Husain claiming that “100 customs officials possess wealth exceeding USD 100 million each.”
The Association stated that no evidence, data, names, asset records or investigative findings had been produced to support such a serious allegation against the Customs service, adding that generalized accusations against an entire institution undermine morale and public confidence.
According to the Pakistan Customs Officers Association, the remarks have caused “serious reputational harm” to thousands of serving and retired Customs officers who continue to perform sensitive duties relating to anti-smuggling enforcement, border control, trade facilitation and revenue collection.
Legal notice served
Documents available with Customs Today show that the Association has formally served a legal notice upon Dr Ishrat Husain demanding withdrawal of the statement and issuance of an unconditional public apology.
The notice further seeks removal of the allegedly defamatory video clip from social media and digital platforms where it has been circulated.
The Association warned that in the absence of a clarification or apology, it may pursue remedies available under the Defamation Ordinance, PECA and other relevant laws.
Legal experts believe the matter could trigger an important debate regarding responsible public commentary by influential figures, especially when allegations concern state institutions and public servants without supporting evidence placed on record.
“Constructive criticism must remain evidence-based”
The Association clarified that accountability and transparency are essential principles within public institutions, however criticism must remain factual, evidence-driven and institutionally responsible.
Officials maintained that Pakistan Customs in recent years has undergone extensive reforms aimed at improving transparency and minimizing discretionary intervention through automation and digitization.
The statement highlighted implementation of:
* automated customs clearance systems,
* digital risk management frameworks,
* trade facilitation reforms,
* enhanced enforcement coordination,
* modernization of anti-smuggling mechanisms, and
* strengthened revenue monitoring systems.
According to Customs officials, these measures have significantly improved institutional oversight and operational transparency across Customs formations nationwide.
Massive anti-smuggling role highlighted
The Association emphasized that Customs officers remain at the forefront of the country’s anti-smuggling efforts and routinely face operational risks while safeguarding state revenue and border controls.
Officials noted that Pakistan Customs has recently intensified operations against:
* smuggling of petroleum products,
* narcotics trafficking,
* cigarettes and contraband goods,
* misuse of Afghan Transit Trade,
* non-duty-paid vehicles, and
* organized smuggling syndicates.
The Association maintained that thousands of officers continue to serve honestly under difficult conditions and that broad allegations against the entire service structure unfairly overshadow the contributions of professional officers working across ports, borders, airports and enforcement stations.
Strong response within Customs circles
The controversy has generated strong reaction among Customs officers across the country, many of whom privately expressed concern that sweeping allegations from prominent public personalities could damage institutional credibility and public trust.
Senior officers said accountability should always be pursued through lawful and documented mechanisms, but allegations involving extraordinary wealth claims against “100 officials” required verifiable proof rather than generalized public assertions.
Officials also pointed out that if any individual cases of corruption exist, they should be referred to relevant investigative forums instead of portraying the entire Customs service in a negative light.
Officers rally behind institution
The Pakistan Customs Officers Association reiterated its full confidence in the professionalism and integrity of Customs officers serving across Pakistan and stated that the institution would continue its enforcement and anti-smuggling operations without distraction.
The Association further stated that while freedom of expression is respected, public discourse concerning national institutions must remain balanced, responsible and supported by credible evidence to avoid unnecessary institutional damage and demoralization of honest officers serving the country.
