The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) issued a formal clarification on Sunday, addressing recent media reports that misrepresented the role and achievements of the Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation (Customs).
In response, FBR reaffirmed the Directorate’s critical mandate in anti-smuggling and revenue enforcement, emphasizing that its core functions remain intact despite recent structural adjustments.
According to an official statement, FBR’s reorganization plan, approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is focused on enhancing operational efficiency within Customs by eliminating redundant functions, streamlining anti-smuggling activities, and fortifying enforcement operations under a more cohesive structure. Contrary to claims, the FBR highlighted that the Directorate’s operational effectiveness and scope have not been reduced but rather refocused to strengthen anti-smuggling initiatives.
Under the revised structure, certain regional offices deemed redundant will be consolidated, with personnel reassigned to bolster frontline enforcement units. This strategic reallocation aims to optimize resource distribution across Customs operations, enhancing the overall capacity of Customs Intelligence to counter smuggling and enforce revenue laws effectively.
Despite limited resources, the Directorate General has achieved remarkable results in intercepting smuggled goods and recovering significant revenue lost to illicit trade. Operating with just 293 personnel nationwide, the Directorate has employed a collaborative anti-smuggling strategy, working closely with intelligence and law enforcement agencies to expand its enforcement reach.
The FBR also underscored the Directorate’s recent enhancement with additional technical resources and expanded access to critical data, enabling information-driven, swift enforcement actions. These advancements strengthen DG I&I’s ability to conduct sting operations when violations of the Customs Act or related regulations are detected.
As a pivotal component within Pakistan Customs, DG I&I now holds a reinforced position with broad access to essential intelligence data, empowering it to conduct proactive operations based on actionable information. This capability is vital, given the expansive nature of its jurisdiction and the persistent personnel limitations.
The FBR emphasized that the Directorate remains unwavering in its commitment to combating smuggling and safeguarding Pakistan’s economic interests. Under the new anti-smuggling strategy and structural reform, DG I&I is positioned to not only retain but also enhance its role within Pakistan’s Customs ecosystem, supporting the nation’s broader economic objectives through sustained vigilance against smuggling networks.
In conclusion, the FBR reaffirmed its confidence in the Directorate’s continued effectiveness and pledged ongoing support to bolster its resources, ensuring that DG I&I remains a robust guardian of Pakistan’s economic frontiers.