Customs authorities today successfully thwarted a major smuggling attempt, confiscating foreign-origin cigarettes and a vehicle collectively valued at Rs48 million following an intelligence-led raid.
The operation was initiated based on credible intelligence concerning an illicit shipment moving from Kulachi, Dera Ismail Khan, towards Peshawar via less-frequented routes. Staff from the Collectorate of Customs Enforcement Peshawar, assisted by the Quick Response Force (QRF), intercepted the suspect Mazda vehicle near the Lucky Cement Factory in Pezzu at approximately 2:00 a.m.
Following the interception, the truck was escorted to JCP Yarik for a detailed examination. The search uncovered a substantial quantity of non-duty paid cigarettes, leading to the immediate seizure of both the contraband goods and the offending vehicle under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1969.
The seized consignment consisted of 8,100 sleeves of foreign-brand cigarettes, including 2,000 sleeves of Milano London and 6,100 sleeves of Mond. Authorities place the value of the illicit tobacco products at approximately Rs. 43 million, with the impounded vehicle assessed at Rs. 5 million.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reiterated its commitment to combating smuggling and protecting national revenue through sustained vigilance and intelligence-driven enforcement actions.