MULTAN: Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Multan intercepted a substantial quantity of imported cigarettes and cigars valued at nearly Rs2.3 million in the Dera Ghazi Khan region.
Acting on credible intelligence suggesting the transportation of a large quantity of smuggled goods from Quetta to Lahore via truck through the Dera Ghazi Khan Region, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation swiftly formed a specialized team to thwart the illegal activity.
Led by Superintendent Muhammad Zia Bhatti, the team, which included Senior Intelligence Officer Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Inspector Hafiz Younus, and Muhammad Zulfiqar, executed the operation with precision.
Employing stringent monitoring measures, the Customs Intelligence team intensified patrols in the Dera Ghazi Khan region, focusing on intercepting the movement of smuggled goods. Acting on authentic information provided by informers, the Field Intelligence Unit of Sadiqabad successfully intercepted a suspected truck loaded with the illicit goods.
Upon examination, the Customs Intelligence staff discovered a significant cache of foreign-origin cigarettes, featuring various brands including Platinum and others, totaling 145 different cartons. Despite requests, the truck drivers failed to produce any legal import documents justifying possession of the recovered cigarettes and cigars.
Consequently, the Customs Intelligence teams seized the illicit goods under the Customs Act 1969, estimating their value to be approximately Rs. 2.3 million. The seized items were documented in a comprehensive seizure report, and further investigation into the matter is currently underway.
The successful operation underscores the Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Multan’s commitment to curbing smuggling activities in the region and upholding the rule of law.
