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The Supreme Court has barred the release of vehicles used in smuggling on surety, ordering their permanent confiscation after seizure by customs authorities. The landmark ruling aims to tighten enforcement against illicit trade and close loopholes that allowed smugglers to reclaim vehicles during legal proceedings.
The judgment was issued by a three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi. It overturns a long-standing practice under which seized trucks, vans, and cars were routinely released to owners on surety, often enabling repeated use in smuggling operations.
Following the directive, the Customs Appellate Tribunal in Lahore has dismissed hundreds of pending applications seeking the release of confiscated vehicles, effectively implementing the Supreme Court’s order nationwide.
Legal experts say the decision will have far-reaching consequences for transporters and rental businesses, which will now face stricter liability for how their vehicles are used.
Under the ruling, vehicles involved in smuggling will be confiscated in favour of the state with no provision for temporary release. Lawyers believe this will force vehicle owners to verify cargo more carefully and discourage smugglers by imposing heavy financial losses.
“This judgment sends a clear message that vehicles used in smuggling will no longer return to the roads,” a legal analyst said.
The move is widely seen as a decisive step to dismantle smuggling networks and strengthen Pakistan’s fight against illegal trade.
