In a significant blow to the illicit fuel trade, Pakistan Customs has successfully intercepted a large shipment of smuggled Iranian petroleum products in Karachi. The operation, driven by precise intelligence, led to the recovery of a substantial quantity of fuel and the seizure of a vehicle used for its transportation.
Major Haul at Northern By-Pass
The targeted operation was conducted by the Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) of Customs Enforcement, Karachi, at the Northern By-Pass area. Acting on directives from senior officials, including Chief Collector Customs Enforcement, Islamabad, Basit Maqsood Abbasi, and Collector of Customs Enforcement, Karachi, Moin Wani, the team executed a coordinated raid.
Led by Assistant Collector Bisma Noor Jatoi, the enforcement teams uncovered and raided five illegal dumping points that were operating under the deceptive cover of legitimate-looking petrol pumps. This discovery highlights the sophisticated methods employed by smuggling networks to evade detection.
Details of the Seizure
The operation yielded a major haul. Authorities recovered a total of 64,578 litres of smuggled Iranian diesel and petrol. The estimated market value of this confiscated fuel is approximately Rs16.5 million.
In addition to the fuel, officials seized a Mazda vehicle that was caught in the act of unloading the illicit diesel. The vehicle had been modified with a specially fabricated concealed box designed specifically for transporting petroleum products, indicating a professional smuggling setup. The vehicle is valued at around Rs20 million.
Combining the value of the fuel and the vehicle, the total worth of this single seizure case stands at a staggering Rs36.5 million. All recovered products were securely transferred to a Customs warehouse for official measurement and verification.
Commitment to Curbing Illicit Trade
In a press statement following the operation, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) strongly reaffirmed its commitment to combating smuggling activities. The board emphasized that such enforcement actions are critical for protecting the national economy and ensuring a level playing field for legitimate businesses.
By disrupting the supply chains of smuggled goods, particularly fuel, the FBR aims to safeguard government revenue and promote fair market practices. This operation sends a clear message about the government's resolve to tackle economic crimes through proactive and intelligence-driven measures.
