Pakistan Customs seized smuggled goods worth Rs158 million at Sost Dry Port, recovering 317 concealed smartphones, over 3,500 bottles of foreign liquor, pork meat and other prohibited items.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Customs has foiled two major smuggling attempts at the Silk Route Dry Port in Sost, Gilgit-Baltistan, seizing smuggled goods worth an estimated Rs158 million, including concealed mobile phones, foreign-origin liquor, pork meat and other prohibited food items.
According to an official statement, the intelligence-based operations were conducted between July 24 and July 27, 2026, highlighting Customs’ continued efforts to curb organised smuggling, protect government revenue and strengthen border enforcement.
317 concealed smartphones recovered
In the first operation on July 24, Customs officials intercepted a prime mover arriving from China bearing registration number TMS-416 after receiving credible intelligence. A detailed examination uncovered specially fabricated hidden compartments inside the vehicle’s doors, dashboard and other sections.
The search led to the recovery of 317 old and used refurbished smartphones of various models concealed within the vehicle. The seized mobile phones have an estimated value of Rs77 million.
Pakistan Customs registered FIR No. 01/2026 on July 27, 2026, and launched further investigations to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in the smuggling network, including its facilitators and financiers.
Liquor and prohibited food items seized
In a separate intelligence-led operation carried out on July 27, Customs officers examined a pending container at Sost Dry Port following a specific tip-off.
During the inspection, officials recovered around 200 cartons containing approximately 3,540 bottles of foreign-origin liquor, along with 42 cartons of pork meat and other Chinese food products.
According to Customs, the imported edible items were brought into Pakistan in violation of SRO 237(I)/2019, which regulates the import of specified goods. The estimated value of the seized liquor, pork meat and other prohibited items is approximately Rs81 million.
The recovered goods have been taken into official custody, while Customs authorities are completing the inventory, valuation and legal formalities in accordance with the applicable laws.
Customs intensifies anti-smuggling efforts
Pakistan Customs said the successful operations reflect its commitment to combating organised smuggling, facilitating legitimate trade and safeguarding national revenue. The department added that intelligence-based enforcement and enhanced inspection mechanisms remain central to its anti-smuggling strategy at border crossings.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has directed all Customs field formations to maintain heightened vigilance, strengthen risk profiling of cross-border cargo and ensure rigorous scrutiny of consignments to prevent smuggling through the country’s border crossings. Customs officials said investigations are continuing to trace the wider networks involved and bring all responsible individuals to justice.