The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has ordered the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to investigate an alleged fraud involving the import and clearance of an iPhone 16 Plus. The Ombudsman also called for a nationwide review to identify similar cases and improve customs procedures.
Federal Tax Ombudsman Zafar Hijazi said the case appeared to involve a coordinated scheme. He noted that the lawful consignee remained without the duty-paid phone for more than 18 months despite paying all required taxes.
Complainant Claims Phone Was Handed to Another Person
Muhammad Nausherwan Khan filed the complaint. He said his sister in Canada sent him an iPhone 16 Plus through FedEx in December 2024.
After the phone arrived in Karachi, Khan paid Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) taxes of Rs138,526. However, he alleged that officials never delivered the device.
He later claimed Customs released the phone to another individual using a forged authority letter.
Customs officials defended their actions during the proceedings. They said they verified the detention receipt, invoice, and supporting documents before releasing the shipment.
However, the FTO questioned why officials refused to hand over the phone to the original consignee. The Ombudsman noted that Khan had personally approached Customs authorities.
The investigation also found irregularities in the import records. The consignee’s name remained unchanged. However, someone allegedly changed the address and contact details on the airway bill and invoice. The FTO said these changes suggested possible organized fraud.
FTO Recommends Stronger Customs Oversight
Although Khan later informed the FTO that officials had resolved his complaint, the Ombudsman continued the case because of its wider public importance.
The FTO recommended that the FBR order the Chief Collector of Customs (Airports) to investigate the alleged involvement of FedEx, Customs officials, and private individuals.
The Ombudsman also urged authorities to examine courier import records from January 2025 through June 2026 for similar cases. In addition, it recommended investigating forged authority letters and taking legal or disciplinary action where necessary.
The FTO further proposed a uniform Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for courier clearances at international airports. It also called for regular Customs training and instructed authorities to submit a compliance report within 45 days.
