KARACHI: The Customs Court directed investigation officer to produce prosecution witnesses against suspect namely Aslam Khan allies Aslam Singapuri, sitting PTI MNA 254 booked in a case of mis-declaration and evading the duty and taxes in the tune of Rs. 28.57 million to the national exchequer.
On 30, November 2019, above mentioned suspect appeared before the court along with his counsel, special prosecutor for customs and others also were attended the court, however, investigation officer sought time to produce prosecution witnesses, therefore, court approved his plea and adjourned the matter for next date of hearing.
It needs to be mentioned here that on last date of hearing, court had read charge sheet that “on February 6, 1997 Directorate General of Intelligence & Investigation reported a matter that you accused in connivance with (acquitted and absconding suspect) in the year 1997 smuggled into Pakistan electronic goods worth Rs28.57 million in association with Pakistan Air Force personnel and under the garb of defence stores of Pakistan Air Force and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 156(1) (8) (89) & (14) of the customs act, 1969”.
During the hearing, above mentioned suspect denied charge, therefore, court issued notices to witnesses of this case for next date of hearing.
It needs to be pertained here that in general election 2018, Aslam Khan elected from NA 254 Karachi known Azizabad (Nine Zero Area) on Pakistan Tahreek-Insaaf’s ticket.
According to the charge sheet, customs court framed charge on accused Muhammad Azam and Hameeddin on Dec 14, 1997 that “you along with absconding accused Muhammad Aslam Khanand Aslam Singapuri, Muhammad Saleem Khan, Ch. Sajjad, Asif and Akhlaq Ahmed, in the year 1997 smuggled into Pakistan Electronic goods worth Rs28.57 million in association with Pakistan Air Force personnels and under the garb of defence stores of Pakistan Air Force and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 156 (1) (8) (9) (89) and 14 read with section 178 of the customs act, 1969 and within the section 178 of the customs act, 1969.
Documents further revealed that on August 3, 2004 court announced judgment in this case and acquitted above mentioned two suspects giving benefit of doubt, however, court issued non bail-able warrants absconding suspects and filed was moved to office.
