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LAHORE: In a major success against smuggling operations, customs officials at Allama Iqbal International Airport seized a cache of 95 high-end smartphones, valued in the millions of rupees. The phones were hidden within the luggage of a passenger, Mumtaz Muzaffar, a Sialkot resident, who arrived on flight 501-9P from Sharjah late last night.
The confiscation was part of an operation spearheaded by Collector Customs Taiba Kiani, following a tip-off that led to the discovery. Muzaffar, now under arrest, faces legal action as authorities press charges for attempting to smuggle the valuable electronics into the country. The authorities have made it clear that such activities will not be tolerated, and the arrest serves as a strong message to potential smugglers.
This operation adds to the growing list of successful efforts by customs authorities to combat smuggling, particularly of luxury goods and electronics. In recent months, similar crackdowns have led to significant seizures, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding local industries and preventing the illegal trade of counterfeit or substandard goods.
Earlier this year, a similar operation in Karachi resulted in the seizure of counterfeit electronics, underscoring the ongoing challenge faced by customs authorities in curbing smuggling practices. The importance of these operations extends beyond revenue protection, as smuggled goods often pose safety risks due to a lack of regulatory oversight.
