HYDERABAD: Regional Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) has foiled a bid to transport smuggled dry fruit worth Rs50 million under the garb of imported pharmaceutical goods near Toll Plaza M-9.
Sources told Customs Today that the ASO team received a tip-off from Director Hyderabad Amir Raseed, who was informed by Additional Director Ghulam Nabi Kamboh about the movement of smuggled goods.
The team, led by Deputy Director Shakil Ahmad and comprising In-charge ASO Akmal Hashmi, Intelligence Officer Irfan Ghani and Intelligence Officer Atif Shuja, intercepted two 40 feet containers near Toll Plaza M-9 Hyderabad. The containers had intact post examination seals and were carrying a GD for the import and clearance of pharmaceutical Filling Machine Tanks destined to Hattar Industrial Estate, Haripur.
However, upon inspection, the team discovered that smuggled dry fruit, including large cardamom, almond, and Indian cashews, were stuffed inside the containers by opening revolts in such a way that the seals remained intact.
The DIT Hyderabad has registered a case against the smugglers and initiated further investigation. The DIT Hyderabad has also lauded the efforts of the ASO team for busting the smuggling racket.