Seized phones being operated in markets: report

Dozens of high-value advanced mobile phones, seized by customs at New Islamabad International Airport, are being operational in the general market instead of being destroyed, according to a startling investigation.

Despite the Federal Tax Ombudsman's notice and the allegations being proven in the investigation, no action has been taken against the involved customs officers and staff. Customs officials have now received a final warning to take departmental action against the staff involved in this practice.

According to sources, the Federal Tax Ombudsman took notice of the complaints that some of the high-value modern mobile phones seized by customs at the airport were not destroyed and were operational in the market. Advisor to the Federal Tax Ombudsman, Dr Arslan Subagtageen, conducted an investigation confirming the seizure of 42 iPhone 14 Pro Max phones at the airport.

The investigation revealed that out of the 42 valuable phones, 22 iPhone 14 Pro Max phones were not destroyed, while the record indicated that all phones had been destroyed.

The PTA also confirmed that these 22 phones were operational.

Based on the investigation, the Federal Tax Ombudsman and authorities recommended departmental action against the officials and staff of the Collectorate of Customs and Islamabad Airport involved in the case. However, the relevant authorities did not implement the recommendations.

In response, the Federal Tax Ombudsman Secretariat took strict notice, expressing dissatisfaction and issuing orders for departmental action against the customs officials and staff involved in the scandal.