ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) has barred the release of vehicles used for smuggling on surety after their seizure by customs authorities to curb illicit trade.
According to the report, in a judgment issued by a three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, the court ruled that vehicles used for transporting smuggled goods must remain confiscated and cannot be returned to owners on surety.
The decision marks a departure from past practice, under which seized vehicles were often released pending the conclusion of legal proceedings.
Following the Supreme Court’s directive, the Customs Appellate Tribunal in Lahore has dismissed hundreds of applications seeking the release of seized vehicles on surety, effectively enforcing the Supreme Court order.
Legal experts say the ruling will have far-reaching implications for transport and rental businesses.
Lawyers noted that vehicle owners will now exercise greater caution before renting out vehicles, ensuring that goods being transported are properly verified to avoid the risk of permanent confiscation.
Previously, customs authorities routinely released trucks, vans, and cars used in smuggling cases on surety, allowing them to return to circulation.
Under the new ruling, such vehicles will be confiscated in favour of the state permanently.
Lawyers believe the decision could prove to be a strong deterrent against smuggling, as the absence of any provision for release on surety would make it far more difficult to transport illicit goods without risking permanent loss of vehicles.
