KARACHI: Pakistan Custom has started the investigation against the recovered huge quantity of liquor worth millions of dollars being smuggled through sea routes.
According to the details, the security elements of Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) and Pakistan Navy have apprehended a large quantity of liquor smuggled from International sea routes. The operation was carried out while undertaking Maritime Security Operations in Pakistani Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) during which seizure of liquor was an outcome of a coordinated and complex operation involving persistent surveillance & patrolling in the area.
The recovered liquors were handed over to Pakistan Customs during an event held at the Headquarters of Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) where Collector Customs Preventive Dr Iftekhar Ahmed headed the Customs department.
A total of 9392 liquor bottles and 45218 beer cans having market value of approximately Rs70 million were seized in the current joint operation. The apprehended liquor has been handed over to Collector Customs Preventive Dr Iftekhar Ahmed so that Pakistan Customs can carry further legal proceedings.
PMSA being the law enforcement agency in Pakistani Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) maintains its near permanent presence at sea with its Ships and Aircraft against possible illegal activities.
Successful operation by Pakistan Maritime Security Agency and Pakistan Navy through close cooperation and coordination, resulting in seizure of huge quantity of liquor is a testament to the fact that Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency are vigilant and remain committed in preventing use of Pakistani waters for any unlawful purposes. Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency will continue to shoulder its national obligation and responsibility to establish lawful order at sea across Indian Ocean.
It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan Navy Ship ASLAT also seized 5000 kg of hashish in Feb 18, while operating at North Arabian Sea, which also valued in millions of dollars.
