SIALKOT: The Customs Intelligence and Investigation Department of Gujranwala division has seized smuggled cloth, non-duty paid vehicles, tea, red chillies, cigarettes and other items worth Rs 6.6 billion from March 15 to June 15, 2016.
Under the supervision of Customs Intelligence Assistant Director Ms Zainab Mehmood, the team comprising Superintendent Muhammad Akmal, Deputy Superintendent Muhammad Anwar, Inspectors Majid Raza, Mian Muhammad Yousaf and others conducted various raids in Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, Sheikhupura, Mandi Bahauddin and other areas to curb smuggling attempts.
Customs officials told Customs Today that the Customs Intelligence teams impounded 23 luxury vehicles, including Mercedes, Toyota Corolla, Mark X, Toyota Hilux Surf etc, which were brought into the country without paying duty and tax. Whereas contraband items including smuggled cloth, tea, electronics, scrap, blankets, auto spare parts and other items were also confiscated during the raids. During the actions, the officials also arrested alleged smugglers and registered cases against them. The cases have been sent to Customs Adjudication for further legal action.
Assistant Director Zainab Mehmood told Customs Today that the smugglers are the enemy of the country, as they damage national economy. She said the department would not allow them to carry out their illegal activities in the country. On the other hand, Customs Intelligence Director General Imtiaz Ahmad hailed the performance of the officials and announced to give them appreciation certificates and cash prizes. Office Superintendent Sajjad Rubbani said that struggle of the department will continue to counter smuggling and the fruitful results are observing day by day.
