ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has imposed strict measures at airports, particularly Islamabad Airport, to prevent illegal clearance of non-duty paid goods through baggage schemes. The move follows the dismissal of customs officials at Karachi and Lahore airports for violations.
Under FBR notifications issued Saturday, officials with over three years’ tenure at airports may be transferred or removed to prevent misuse of authority. In one case, Superintendent (Baggage) Muhammad Asif Nawaz allowed clearance of a used engine disguised as personal baggage, resulting in short levies of Rs306,553. Following a detailed inquiry, he was dismissed from service for inefficiency, misconduct, and corruption.
In a separate case, Preventive Officer Syed Arshad Ali detained a passenger for 28 minutes without witnesses and mishandled a currency declaration, prompting his dismissal as well.
The FBR said such steps are essential to uphold customs laws and restore integrity in airport operations.