ISLAMABAD : In a decisive crackdown on illegal trade, Pakistan Customs has destroyed seized contraband valued at approximately Rs 800 million following the completion of all legal formalities, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The destruction operation was carried out at the Islamabad Dry Port, where a large cache of confiscated items—including foreign liquor, smuggled mobile phones, contraband cigarettes, and various other illicit goods—was systematically disposed of in accordance with standard operating procedures and environmental regulations.
A spokesperson for Pakistan Customs reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against smuggling, describing the illicit trade as a “serious threat” to the national economy, local industries, and legitimate business enterprises. “Smuggling not only deprives the national exchequer of vital revenue but also undermines fair competition for local manufacturers,” the official stated.
Emphasizing the impartial nature of the ongoing operations, the spokesperson made it clear that indiscriminate actions would continue against organized smuggling networks, regardless of the entities involved. “Strict legal action will be taken against all elements engaged in illegal trade,” they added.
To further bolster anti-smuggling efforts, Pakistan Customs announced that intelligence-based operations are being accelerated across the country. Simultaneously, the enforcement system is being upgraded with enhanced border surveillance mechanisms to intercept illegal cross-border movements more effectively.
Reaffirming its institutional resolve, Pakistan Customs vowed to continue its robust and non-discriminatory operations to safeguard the national treasury and eliminate all forms of smuggling.
