KARACHI: In an effort to combat the misuse of authority, Pakistan Customs has implemented a new policy limiting government officials’ access to smuggled and tampered vehicles, ARY News reported on Wednesday.
The policy aims to prevent Customs officials from misusing thousands of impounded vehicles in their custody for personal purposes. It cancels all No Objection Certificates (NOCs) previously issued for such vehicles.
Under the new regulations, provincial Customs Intelligence offices are limited to using a maximum of 10 vehicles, while the Islamabad office is restricted to 12. Offices in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, and Peshawar are also allowed up to 10 vehicles each.
This move seeks to enhance transparency and accountability within the department and curb the rising misuse of impounded vehicles by officials.
In related developments, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) recently proposed amendments to the Customs Rules 2001 regarding the temporary import of vehicles by tourists. The draft amendment allows tourists to keep vehicles in Pakistan duty-free for up to three months, provided specific conditions are met. A declaration ensuring non-transfer of ownership during their stay is also required.
These measures reflect ongoing efforts to streamline Customs operations and enforce stricter regulations.
