FBR sets up Customs Command Fund for effective anti-smuggling operations

ISLAMABAD: Individuals who provide reliable confidential information in customs will be rewarded with Rs500,000, while officers who demonstrate exceptional performance will be rewarded with up to two years of basic salary.

The FBR, implementing the Transformation Plan, has established a Customs Command Fund to make anti-smuggling operations more effective and has issued draft new rules and regulations in this regard.

According to the SRO issued by the FBR in this regard, these rules have been framed under the Customs Act of 1969 and objections or suggestions can be made on them within three days. Under this, rations, protective equipment and other necessities for personnel working at check posts, mobile squads and digital enforcement stations can be purchased from the fund. Transportation, storage, disposal and other related expenses of seized goods can also be met from this fund. According to the proposed rules, a regular record of every payment will be kept and the confidentiality of all information will be ensured. Codes will be allotted to those providing information so that their identity remains confidential.

In addition, the fund will be audited annually by the Auditor General of Pakistan.