Customs foils Rs300m smuggling bid; two officials injured

LAHORE: Customs Enforcement Lahore thwarted a smuggling attempt worth an estimated Rs300 million during an operation in Shah Alam Market.

The operation, led by Assistant Collector (AC) Arslan Mughal, was conducted on the directives of Collector Saeed Wattoo, targeting smugglers trafficking banned items like cigarettes, betel nuts, gutka, and other contraband. The raid turned into a violent standoff when members of 'Shafiq Papa group' opened fire on the customs team. The gunfire left an inspector and a sepoy injured. Despite the intense resistance, the customs team managed to seize the contraband and secure the scene.

Addressing a press conference at the Customs House, AC Arslan Mughal revealed that the Shafiq Papa group has a documented history of smuggling activities and is allegedly involved in multiple cases. Superintendent Rashid Munir detailed that separate FIRs are being registered for smuggling and the assault on customs officials. Commending the team, Collector Saeed Wattoo expressed his pride in their courage and dedication.