ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti, in a clear display of zero tolerance towards smuggling, has announced the provision of prize money to individuals who furnish information related to smuggling, hoarding, and the presence of illegal immigrants.
During a joint press conference held in Islamabad on Sunday, Bugti, flanked by Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi, asserted the unwavering commitment of all state institutions and provincial authorities to eradicate the issues of smuggling and hoarding in Pakistan, emphasizing their willingness to take any necessary measures.
He stated that the government’s ongoing operation against the smuggling of essential commodities such as wheat, sugar, urea, dollars, and others has resulted in the recovery of significant quantities of sugar and urea across various regions in the country.
Bugti also emphasized that law enforcement has apprehended 59 individuals involved in the illegal Hundi-Hawala business.
Bugti expressed concern about a troubling development where those engaged in smuggling have now turned to hoarding various goods.
He emphasized that there would be no leniency, and the state apparatus is resolute in its efforts to combat both smuggling and hoarding.
Furthermore, he declared plans to take action against illegal immigrants in the country. He indicated the establishment of a reward system for information leading to their apprehension.
Responding to a question regarding terrorist attacks originating from Afghanistan, Bugti urged the Afghan government to adhere to the Doha Agreement, which prohibits the use of Afghan soil for hostile activities against any nation.
Rescue operation ongoing for kidnapped footballers
The interior minister, earlier today, emphasized the full utilization of all available resources in the ongoing efforts to rescue six local footballers who were abducted from Sui Tehsil in Dera Bugti.
In an official statement, he confirmed that an operation to secure the hostages has been in progress since Saturday.
Furthermore, the minister underscored that individuals engaged in acts of anarchy will not evade the reach of the law. He firmly expressed his commitment to actively stay involved until the safe recovery of the hostages.
