Customs officials at Allama Iqbal International Airport thwarted a smuggling attempt on Thursday, seizing 37 iPhones worth approximately Rs11.5 million.
The operation was led by Assistant Collector Customs Simrah and Superintendent Shahid Ali, under the supervision of Collector Customs Airports Tayyeba Kayani. Acting on specific intelligence, the customs team intercepted Umer Farooq, a passenger arriving from Sharjah via Fly Jinnah.
A thorough search of his belongings uncovered concealed smartphones that had been brought into Pakistan without the required declarations. Initial investigations indicate the phones were intended for the black market, where their prices are significantly higher due to tax and duty evasion.
Collector Customs Tayyeba Kayani lauded the vigilance and swift action of her team, emphasizing their dedication to curbing smuggling and safeguarding the national economy.
“This successful operation highlights our unwavering commitment to fighting illegal trade and protecting economic interests,” she stated.
Umer Farooq is currently in custody, and further investigations are underway to identify others involved in the smuggling network.
