MULTAN: A large-scale vehicle registration scam has been uncovered, with a mafia allegedly earning billions of rupees by illegally registering over 700 vehicles in collusion with the Islamabad Excise Department. The scandal, which is causing significant financial losses to the national exchequer, was brought to light by the Multan Customs Collectorate Enforcement. Their investigation revealed that a considerable number of non-customs paid (NCP) vehicles seized during recent operations were fraudulently registered through the Islamabad Excise Motor Branch.
Deputy Collector of Customs Enforcement Multan, Fareeduddin Masood, disclosed that from January 1, 2024, to May 5, 2024, more than 80 NCP vehicles, valued at approximately Rs 300 million, were seized—all of which had been illegally registered by the Islamabad Excise Department. Despite the gravity of this situation, the formal complaints and demands for disciplinary action by the Multan Customs Collectorate have yet to elicit any response from the Islamabad Excise Department.
The scandal reportedly involves a broad network of influential individuals, including smugglers, Members of the National Assembly (MNAs), Senators, and senior Excise officers. The Multan Customs Collectorate has strongly urged a comprehensive investigation and strict disciplinary measures against those involved.
This situation underscores an urgent need for sweeping reforms within the vehicle registration system to prevent further exploitation and restore accountability. The Islamabad Excise Department must immediately cease the registration of illegal non-customs paid vehicles to stop this drain on the national exchequer.
The ongoing practice not only facilitates smuggling but also undermines the integrity of the national vehicle registration system. Immediate reforms and enhanced oversight are essential to ensure that all vehicle registrations adhere to legal standards, thereby protecting the financial interests of the state and its citizens.
