Syed Ali Shah:Â
Quetta – In a dramatic escalation of Pakistan’s biggest customs scandal in recent years, authorities have suspended six more officers after fresh evidence exposed their alleged involvement, gross negligence, and direct facilitation in the shocking case of converting silver into lead.
Sources within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) revealed that a deeper investigation uncovered clear signs of misconduct and serious lapses by several customs officials and staff members. Following these findings, the authorities immediately suspended one Collector Customs (BS-20), one Deputy Collector (BS-18), one Assistant Collector (BS-17), and three officers at the BS-16 level.
Criminal investigations are now in full swing. Those found directly complicit in the scam will face charges in a formal FIR, while individuals who benefited from the fraud have also been identified and will be brought to justice under the full force of the law.
To restore public confidence and ensure a fair probe, the entire previous team at the Collectorate of Customs Enforcement in Quetta has been replaced. Three new officers have been posted, and the newly appointed Collector and Additional Collector have already taken charge of their duties in the provincial capital.
The unfolding scandal has sent shockwaves through the customs department and raised serious concerns about internal oversight and accountability.
