Under the directives of Chairman FBR, Malik Amjed Zubair Tiwana, and the direct supervision of Member Inland Revenue (Operations) Mr. Mir Badshah Khan Wazir, IR Field Formations of FBR conducted a nationwide crackdown on counterfeit and non-stamped cigarettes during a counter-evasion operation.
As a result of the operation, 1,235 Packerites of cigarettes with an approximate value of Rs. 96 million were seized. A total of 4,652 retail outlets across the country were visited, leading to the sealing of 33 outlets involved in illicit tobacco trade.
Notably, 204 teams comprising 1,047 personnel participated in the enforcement drive aimed at curbing the movement of illicit cigarettes. Chairman FBR Malik Amjed Zubair Tiwana and Member Inland Revenue (Operations) Mr. Mir Badshah Khan Wazir commended the efforts of IR field formations involved in the operation, despite facing challenges such as limited human resources and logistics.
It was emphasized that all individuals involved in illicit tobacco trade and evading government revenue will face strict action and penal proceedings under relevant rules. Repeat offenders are likely to face arrests in the next phase of enforcement efforts.