PM Shehbaz urges intensified efforts against smuggling

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Wednesday expressed satisfaction over the reduction in smuggling activities and reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding the national economy from further damage.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, during a high-level review meeting in Islamabad, the PM directed relevant authorities to intensify their anti-smuggling efforts across the country.

The Prime Minister highlighted the role of modern technology in effectively curbing smuggling and noted the positive outcomes from recent operations. He emphasized the need for strict legal actions against individuals involved in smuggling, including their facilitators and the transporters, by confiscating vehicles used in these illegal activities. The Federal Board of Revenue, Ministry of Interior, and other relevant agencies were instructed to enhance their coordination to strengthen these efforts.

Additionally, PM Shehbaz instructed the preparation of a comprehensive plan to provide better employment opportunities in border areas, aiming to reduce the economic incentives for smuggling.

The meeting was informed about ongoing anti-smuggling campaigns targeting petroleum products, cigarettes, mobile phones, gold, tea, clothing, and vehicle parts. A web portal has been launched to monitor the smuggling of sugar and urea, and a mechanism for identifying non-custom paid vehicles is nearing completion.