ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has taken major action in the ongoing silver swap case, suspending several customs officers and initiating a criminal investigation against those allegedly involved in corruption.
According to an official notification, officers from multiple grades have been suspended, including a Grade 20 collector, officers from Grades 18 and 17, as well as three officials from Grade 16. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to ensure accountability within the customs department.
Among those suspended is Grade 20 officer Dr. Karam Elahi, who was serving as director intelligence in Peshawar. Grade 18 officer Hammad Ahmed, previously posted as deputy director at Customs Collectorate Quetta, has also been suspended. Additionally, Assistant Collector Quetta (Grade 17) Muhammad Yousuf and Preventive Officers Samiullah and Arif Ali Jumani (both Grade 16) are included in the suspension list.
The FBR confirmed that a criminal investigation is underway under FIR No. 01 against individuals allegedly involved in the silver swap case. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to bringing all responsible elements to justice.
In a related development, the FBR has appointed a new team in Quetta Customs Enforcement, with a new Collector and Additional Collector assuming charge to oversee operations and ensure transparency.
The revenue authority has declared a policy of zero tolerance towards corruption, emphasizing that strict disciplinary action will be taken against any officials found guilty. “Corruption will not be tolerated at any level, and those involved will face severe punishment,” an FBR spokesperson stated.
Further progress in the investigation is expected in the coming days as authorities continue to probe the case.
