Intelligence and Investigation Wing of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has given assurances to traders that no illegal raids will be conducted against shopkeepers.
The Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) provided this assurance to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) following concerns raised by the Alliance of Arambagh Markets Association regarding the raids.
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In a meeting with the delegation from the Alliance of Arambagh Markets Association, KCCI President Mohammed Tariq Yousuf addressed the concerns and assured the shopkeepers that the issue had been discussed with the Directorate General of Intelligence & Investigations. They have confirmed that no further illegal raids will be conducted in the future. President Yousuf emphasized that any incidents of raid should be immediately reported to the KCCI, and they would approach high-ranking officials at the FBR to ensure justice for innocent shopkeepers.
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The meeting was attended by several prominent individuals including Senior Vice President Touseef Ahmed, Vice President Haris Agar, Chairman of the Special Committee for Small Traders Majeed Memon, and former President Shamim Ahmed Firpo. President Yousuf further advised shopkeepers to share any instances of illegal raids where goods have been confiscated in the recent past with the KCCI. The chamber will make every effort to resolve these issues amicably and in a timely manner.
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President Yousuf highlighted that the Karachi Chamber has been actively working to address various issues faced by small traders and shopkeepers in the city. He encouraged those facing problems with authorities to approach the KCCI, as they are dedicated to supporting small traders and shopkeepers.
Chairman of the Special Committee for Small Traders, Majeed Memon, urged unity among small traders and shopkeepers under the KCCI’s umbrella. He emphasized the importance of active participation in the chamber’s activities, which would help bring issues to the forefront and enable the development of effective strategies to address them.
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Chairman Asif Gulfam of the Alliance of Arambagh Market expressed appreciation for Majeed Memon’s efforts in resolving issues faced by shopkeepers. Gulfam highlighted the challenges faced by the business community in Karachi, including the lack of basic facilities such as proper roads, water supply, and electricity. He called upon the KCCI to assist in resolving these issues to improve the working environment in the commercial market.
Gulfam also highlighted the serious parking issue in the Arambagh area and suggested the establishment of an underground parking area at Arambagh Park as a solution. He requested the KCCI to advocate for this important project with the authorities.
Members of the Arambagh Markets Association shared the hardships they face when dealing with I&I officials during late-night raids. They claimed that officials forcefully enter shops, confiscate goods, and harass shopkeepers with the intention of seeking bribes. They mentioned that once their demands are met, the confiscated goods are released; otherwise, shopkeepers suffer for months and experience significant financial losses.
