MULTAN: The Multan Tax Bar Association (MTBA) has raised serious concerns regarding a significant security breach at the Regional Tax Office (RTO) in Multan, where approximately 300 cartons of non-duty paid cigarettes have reportedly gone missing.
This incident, which has resulted in an estimated loss of 25 to 30 million rupees to the national exchequer, highlights alarming lapses in security and internal controls at the RTO. In a formal letter addressed to the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in Islamabad, the MTBA has outlined several urgent measures that need to be implemented to address this crisis and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Among the key recommendations is the formation of an inquiry committee that would include senior officials from the FBR, MTBA representatives, members of the Chamber of Commerce, and civil society. This committee is expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the extent of the losses and identify those responsible for this breach. Additionally, the MTBA has urged the FBR to file a First Information Report (FIR) against the culprits to initiate criminal proceedings and ensure accountability.
The MTBA also emphasizes the need for immediate action to secure any remaining stock of seized cigarettes, recommending a comprehensive physical stock take and audit conducted under strict security measures. They have insisted that the RTO Multan administration must refrain from destroying or disposing of any remaining stock until the inquiry committee has published its findings. To bolster security further, the MTBA has proposed the installation of surveillance cameras throughout the RTO premises and has stressed the importance of a fully operational biometric attendance system to enhance staff accountability.
Moreover, the association has suggested a reevaluation of the current security arrangements, advocating for the hiring of a reputable security firm to replace existing in-house security personnel. The MTBA has underscored that the integrity and efficiency of tax administration are crucial for the nation’s economic health.
They hope that these measures will be implemented promptly to restore public confidence in the operations of the RTO. The letter has been shared with key stakeholders, including the Federal Tax Ombudsman and various senior officials within the Inland Revenue Department, as the MTBA seeks a comprehensive response to this pressing issue.
