KARACHI, October 23 2024: Seized goods valued at over Rs. 23 million have reportedly been stolen from Karachi Airport’s Royal Service Terminal, under the watch of customs and terminal officials. According to documents, the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) South exposed this case of illegal pilferage, which involved a Lahore-based company accused of misdeclaring liquid food flavours.
The investigation, spearheaded by DG PCA Chaudhary Zulfiqar Ali and Director PCA South Sheeraz Ahmed, uncovered a fraudulent scheme in which the company obtained possession of the confiscated goods without paying the Rs. 8.12 million redemption fine. PCA sources indicated that this is part of a broader pattern of corruption within customs procedures, involving collusion between companies and officials.
This incident follows three earlier FIRs filed against different companies for similar offences involving the theft of machine parts, electronics, and aluminium sheets. PCA South has filed charges against the involved company and its clearing agent, while teams have been mobilized to take action. The investigation continues as authorities suspect the fraud could be more widespread, raising concerns over airport security and customs compliance.
In response, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced a thorough review of customs procedures at major ports and airports, particularly focusing on the handling of confiscated goods and the accountability of officials involved.
