MULTAN: The Customs Collectorate Enforcement’s Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) in Multan has been severely crippled following significant reductions in its powers and jurisdiction.
A large portion of the Multan Customs Collectorate has now been integrated into the newly formed Indus Collectorate effectively stripping the Multan Customs Enforcement of its authority and leaving it unable to carry out anti-smuggling operations. This restructuring has led to growing concerns about the future functionality of the Customs Department in Multan.
In a move seen by many as a step backwards, the Customs Department has been rendered ineffective, with anti-smuggling operations now falling under the control of security agencies rather than Customs Enforcement. Law enforcement bodies such as the police, Rangers, and other security agencies now hold more power in conducting anti-smuggling operations than Customs, leaving the Customs Enforcement unit sidelined. The restructuring, labeled by critics as an administrative farce, has also severely diminished the department’s credibility.
The situation has worsened with allegations that Customs Enforcement in Multan is being complicit in facilitating smuggling activities. These allegations, which have been leveled against various Customs officials, have led to the dismantling of the Customs Intelligence unit. With the dissolution of Customs Intelligence, Customs Enforcement has become a target for scrutiny, with officials continuously facing accusations of involvement in smuggling networks.
According to sources within Customs Enforcement, smuggled goods continue to flow into Multan through more than 50 check posts manned by the army, Rangers, Levies, and Border Security Forces. Despite these significant operational failures by security agencies, Customs Enforcement continues to be blamed for the ongoing smuggling, which many consider unjustified. Officers within the department have expressed frustration over the increasing interference from security and intelligence agencies, which they believe is damaging the department’s integrity and reputation.
The situation has sparked widespread concern, as Customs Enforcement in Multan, once considered a key player in the fight against smuggling now struggles to perform its duties under the weight of political and institutional interference. Calls have been made for urgent action to restore the effectiveness and autonomy of the department to combat the growing threat of smuggling.
