Pakistan Customs has conducted one of its largest anti-smuggling operations, seizing over Rs. 1.1 billion worth of illicit cigarettes and raw materials. The crackdown took place across multiple cities, including Lahore, Daska, and Hyderabad.
The Enforcement wing under the Chief Collectorate in Islamabad led the operations, targeting organized networks involved in illegal cigarette production and smuggling. In Lahore, Customs discovered production units disguised as rice mills in Daska. Large quantities of acetate tow, filters, foils, paper, and adhesives were confiscated.
Additional raids at Sundar Industrial Estate resulted in the recovery of 12.5 metric tons of acetate tow and more than 120 metric tons of cigarette-making materials. Officials said the combined value of the seizures exceeds Rs. 1 billion, marking a record for recent enforcement efforts.
In Hyderabad, Customs intensified actions against non-duty-paid cigarettes and smuggled tobacco. Authorities seized 386,100 cigarette packets and raw materials worth Rs. 54.48 million. A major interception near Tando Allahyar uncovered 18,492 kg of Brazilian-origin tobacco and 433 kg of acetate tow, valued at nearly Rs. 50 million.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the financiers and networks behind the illegal trade. The FBR Chairman praised the coordinated work of the Lahore and Hyderabad Collectorates, highlighting that these operations support the government’s Transformation Plan.
The initiative aims to curb smuggling, protect public revenue, and ensure public health safety. Officials emphasized that continued monitoring and strict enforcement by Customs are crucial to dismantle illegal networks and prevent future violations.
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This operation demonstrates Pakistan Customs’ commitment to tackling smuggling and ensuring compliance with trade and tax laws. The authorities
