PESHAWAR, June 10: The Collectorate of Customs Enforcement Peshawar has destroyed confiscated smuggled goods worth approximately Rs439 million during a disposal operation near the Customs Dry Port in Azakhel, Nowshera.
The destruction was carried out under prescribed legal procedures as part of ongoing anti-smuggling efforts aimed at preventing seized contraband from re-entering the market and protecting government revenue, customs officials said.
Collector Customs Enforcement Peshawar, Ayesha Bashir Wani, attended the ceremony and oversaw the destruction of the confiscated goods.
According to Additional Collector Amanat Khan, a total of 72 consignments seized during various anti-smuggling operations were destroyed.
Cigarettes and betel nuts among major seized items
Officials said the destroyed goods included more than 9.19 million cigarette sleeves valued at approximately Rs360 million.
The operation also included the destruction of 12,234 kilograms of betel nuts worth around Rs24 million and 3,000 kilograms of China salt valued at approximately Rs5 million.
Other confiscated items included medicines, firecrackers, toiletries and tobacco products, with a combined estimated value of about Rs50 million.
Anti-smuggling operations continue
Speaking at the event, Amanat Khan said the destruction of seized goods reflects the department’s commitment to combating smuggling and illegal trade activities.
He noted that smuggling negatively affects the national economy, undermines legitimate businesses and reduces government revenue collection.
According to customs officials, enforcement operations are continuing across the country and have resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of non-duty-paid and prohibited goods.
Focus on legal trade and revenue protection
The customs department stated that proceeds from auctionable seized goods are deposited into the national exchequer, while prohibited or unsuitable items are destroyed in accordance with the law.
Officials said transparent disposal of confiscated goods is an essential part of the enforcement process to ensure compliance with legal requirements and prevent the return of illicit products to commercial markets.
The department reiterated its commitment to strengthening border controls, enhancing enforcement capabilities and improving coordination with relevant agencies to curb smuggling and promote lawful trade.
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