Pakistan Customs has successfully thwarted two significant smuggling attempts at Silk Route Dry Port, Sost, Gilgit-Baltistan, resulting in the seizure of 317 concealed mobile phones and the recovery of approximately 3,540 bottles of foreign-origin liquor concealed in a container. The intelligence-based operations were conducted between 24 and 27 July 2026.
In the first operation, carried out on 24 July 2026, Customs officials intercepted a prime mover arriving from China bearing registration No. TMS-416 on the basis of credible intelligence. A thorough examination of the vehicle revealed specially fabricated concealed compartments in the doors, dashboard, and other sections of the vehicle. Customs officers recovered 317 old and used refurbished smartphones of assorted models from these hidden compartments.
The seized mobile phones are valued at approximately Rs. 77 million. An FIR (No. 01/2026) was registered on 27 July 2026, and further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in the smuggling network and its facilitators.
In a separate intelligence-led operation conducted on 27 July 2026, Customs officers examined a pending container at Sost Dry Port following a specific tip-off. The examination led to the recovery of approximately 200 cartons containing 3,540 bottles of foreign-origin liquor, along with 42 cartons of pork meat and other Chinese food items.
The edible goods were found to be imported in violation of SRO 237(I)/2019. The estimated value of the offending goods is approximately Rs. 81 million. The recovered items have been taken into official custody, while detailed inventory, valuation, and legal proceedings are being completed in accordance with the law.
These successful operations underscore Pakistan Customs' unwavering commitment to combating organized smuggling, protecting legitimate trade, and safeguarding government revenue. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has directed all field formations to maintain heightened vigilance, strengthen risk profiling of cross-border cargo, and ensure rigorous scrutiny of consignments in accordance with the applicable legal and regulatory framework.
