KARACHI: The Customs Court issued notices to customs officials and special prosecutor for customs department on pre-arrest bail petition filed by suspect namely Ather Mateen, who surrendered himself before the court after getting protective arrest by the Sindh High Court, booked in a case of attempting to smuggle non-duty paid assorted brand counterfeit wrist watches etc. On June 17, 2019, court also directed customs officials to file their comments on next date of hearing.
On 17.6.2019, during the hearing, counsel for the accused filed pre-arrest bail petition and argued that applicant was booked in a false case registered at Customs ASO N.M.B Wharf, Karachi for smuggling of contraband goods.
He further argued that case is false and registered due to enmity, it is further contended that applicant intends to surrender before the trial court to face trial, but he apprehends his immediate arrest at the hands of customs officials.
He further submitted that his protective bail was granted by a single bench of SHC, directing him to surrender before the trial court within seven days, therefore, he followed the court order and appeared before this court for pre-arrest bail, therefore, court may grant his pre-arrest bail till final verdict of this case.
