Pakistan Customs has formally requested the Federal Investigation Agency to form a joint investigation committee after a serious alleged tampering incident involving seized silver during transport from Quetta to Lahore.
According to officials from the Federal Board of Revenue, Pakistan Customs had confiscated 698 kilograms of silver bars in Quetta. The consignment was later sent for delivery to the Pakistan Mint for further verification and processing.
However, authorities discovered a major discrepancy upon arrival. Around 400 kilograms of the silver was allegedly replaced with lead during transit. This finding raised serious concerns about possible internal involvement and organized smuggling activity.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the shipment was divided into two separate parts. It was then moved toward Quetta International Airport before onward transportation. Officials believe the substitution may have occurred during this movement stage.
Due to the sensitive nature of the case, Pakistan Customs has pushed for a transparent and coordinated investigation. Authorities suspect that a criminal network may be involved. There are also concerns about possible collusion by individuals responsible for securing the seized goods.
To ensure a thorough probe, Pakistan Customs has proposed the formation of a Joint Investigation Team. This JIT will include representatives from law enforcement agencies, intelligence departments, and Customs officials. The aim is to ensure accountability and clarity in the investigation process.
Several individuals have already been detained in connection with the case. Further arrests are expected as investigators continue gathering evidence. Authorities are also focusing on recovering the missing silver and identifying all those involved.
The office of the Chief Collector Customs Enforcement in Islamabad has been assigned as the central coordination point. It will manage communication between different agencies involved in the investigation.
Officials said Pakistan Customs is taking the matter very seriously. They added that strict legal action will be taken once responsibility is confirmed. The case has raised concerns about the security of high-value seized goods during transportation.
Investigators are now reviewing all procedures linked to the transfer and storage of confiscated materials. The goal is to determine how such a large-scale substitution could take place without immediate detection.
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The inquiry remains ongoing, and authorities have assured full transparency in the investigation process.
