Intelligence-led operations in Peshawar recover contraband, non-duty-paid vehicles and illicit goods as anti-smuggling drive intensifies
The Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement), Peshawar, has intensified its anti-smuggling campaign by seizing smuggled goods and non-duty-paid (NDP) vehicles worth an estimated Rs1.163 billion over the past two weeks through a series of intelligence-led operations and enhanced surveillance.
According to Pakistan Customs, the successful operations were carried out using coordinated intelligence, strengthened field enforcement and improved surveillance to dismantle smuggling networks, safeguard government revenue and protect legitimate trade.
One of the largest recoveries involved the seizure of 6,330 kilograms of cellulose acetate tow, which was concealed inside a shipping container falsely declared as carrying household goods. Customs officials said the interception prevented a significant attempt to evade customs duties through fraudulent declarations.
In another intelligence-based operation, enforcement teams recovered 4,052 kilograms of assorted ladies’ and gents’ fabric from a Bedford truck transporting smuggled merchandise.
In a separate raid, customs authorities seized 7,380 sleeves of cigarettes and 1,100 kilograms of Gold Gutka from another Bedford truck, dealing a major blow to the illicit trade in tobacco products and prohibited items.
Meanwhile, in the Hazara region, customs officials intercepted an Isuzu truck at Thakot, where they recovered a substantial consignment of foreign-origin and non-duty-paid food items that had allegedly been smuggled into the country.
Apart from commercial goods, Pakistan Customs also confiscated three luxury non-duty-paid vehicles with an estimated market value of Rs25.5 million, further highlighting the department’s intensified enforcement against illegal imports.
Officials said the successful operations demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-based enforcement, close operational coordination and enhanced monitoring in curbing the illegal movement of smuggled goods across the region.
Pakistan Customs reiterated its commitment to eliminating smuggling through sustained intelligence-led operations, advanced risk management systems and stronger border vigilance. The department said these measures are essential to protecting the national economy, securing government revenue and ensuring fair competition for legitimate businesses.
The Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement), Peshawar, affirmed that it would continue to strengthen its enforcement strategy and take strict legal action against individuals and organised networks involved in smuggling, reinforcing Pakistan Customs’ commitment to securing the country’s borders and facilitating lawful trade.