Pakistan Customs has thwarted an attempt to manipulate the newly introduced Faceless Customs Assessment System (FCAS), which was designed for efficient and transparent assessments.
According to a press release, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had anticipated such an attempt and had instructed the Karachi Customs team to remain vigilant. The operation led to the suspension of customs licenses for 45 agents involved in the scheme, with show-cause notices issued under Customs Agents Rules.
Additionally, an appraising officer accused of colluding in the attempt was suspended on Friday, and a formal inquiry has been launched against him under Efficiency and Discipline Rules.
Authorities have also filed a criminal case against the involved agents, the officer, and private individuals linked to the scheme. A dedicated investigation team has been formed, with three arrests already made, while raids are underway to apprehend the remaining suspects.
The FBR assured that FCAS continues to function smoothly, with no backlog in customs clearances.