Pakistan Customs, Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement), Peshawar, has reported an incident of firing on Customs officials during a routine anti-smuggling operation conducted by the Intelligence & Special Checking Squad, Peshawar. The incident took place at approximately 10:00 a.m. at Jahaz Chowk, Phase-III, Hayatabad, Peshawar.
According to the incident report, the Customs squad, led by Inspector Muhammad Areeb, intercepted two Chingchi rickshaws arriving from Karkhano Market on suspicion of transporting smuggled cloth. While officials were carrying out the checking of the intercepted vehicles, five individuals arrived at the scene in a white Suzuki Swift bearing registration number BDS-211. The report identifies the individuals as Noor Rahman son of Gul Rahman, Abdul Rahman son of Noor Rahman, Shakeel son of Khan Sahib, and two unidentified persons.
The individuals allegedly obstructed Customs officials in the lawful discharge of their official duties and initiated a physical altercation with the Customs staff. During the altercation, Noor Rahman allegedly opened indiscriminate fire with a pistol on the Customs officials.
As a result of the firing, Sepoy Muhammad Luqman son of Amir Jan sustained a firearm injury to his left arm near the elbow, while Sepoy Faisal Shah sustained a minor injury below his ear. Taking advantage of the situation, the accused persons fled the scene along with the two Chingchi rickshaws carrying the suspected smuggled cloth.
An FIR has been registered against the nominated accused persons at Police Station Hayatabad, Peshawar. Further investigation is being carried out by the concerned police authorities, while efforts are underway to apprehend the accused persons and recover the escaped vehicles and suspected smuggled goods.
Pakistan Customs strongly condemns the attack on its officials and reiterates that such acts of violence and obstruction will not deter Customs authorities from performing their lawful duties. Pakistan Customs remains committed to taking firm action against smuggling and protecting the economic interests of the country.
