The government’s tax watchdog, the Federal Tax Ombudsman, has given customs officials a final warning after discovering expensive mobile phones that were supposed to be destroyed were sold on the market.
Despite proof that customs employees were involved, no one has been punished. The tax office stepped in after learning that 22 high-end phones, worth millions of rupees, had vanished.
A government investigation found that 42 expensive iPhones (14 Pro Max models) were seized at the airport but disappeared. Officials say that records show all the phones were destroyed, but 22 are still being used. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed that these phones are working.
The Federal Tax Ombudsman has called for punishment for customs officials who stole expensive phones through the Customs Collectorate and Islamabad Airport. But so far, nothing has been done. The tax office has expressed frustration and has ordered the FBR to take departmental action against the officials in question.
In response to this, the Obdusman’s advisor, Dr. Arslan has issued a final notice to the Secretary of the Revenue Division, the Member Customs (Operations) of the FBR, and the Collector of the Collectorate of Customs at Islamabad International Airport.
The advisor’s notice has ordered officials to follow through on their recommendations within the next 30 days. A progress report is required at the end of this period.
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