Govt proposes new law to discourage smuggled vehicles

If a vehicle’s chassis number has been altered, cut, or welded, it will be considered smuggled

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ISLAMABAD:

The federal government has proposed a new law to ensure strict action against smuggled vehicles. According to the proposed law, vehicles with tampered or altered chassis numbers will be seized by the Customs authorities.

If a vehicle's chassis number has been altered, cut, or welded, or if any material has been used to conceal its original state, it will be considered smuggled, regardless of its registration with any motor registration authority.

Under the law, forensic investigations will be conducted on vehicles to detect any tampering. If the forensic investigation reveals any alteration or tampering with the chassis number or its parts, the vehicle will be considered smuggled and will be immediately confiscated.

These strict measures are aimed at curbing smuggling and eliminating vehicles imported through illegal means, ensuring the use of only legal-imported vehicles in the country.

According to government sources, this law will help prevent vehicle theft and illegal trade. Authorities have advised the public to avoid purchasing vehicles with tampered or altered chassis numbers. Moreover, vehicle owners have been advised to conduct forensic checks to ensure their vehicles are compliant with the law.

Key provisions of the proposed law:

1. Definition of a smuggled vehicle:

• Any vehicle with a modified, cut-and-welded, or filled-in chassis number to conceal its original state will be declared smuggled—even if registered with any motor vehicle authority.

2. Forensic investigations:

• Vehicles will undergo forensic checks to detect tampering.
• If forensic reports confirm alteration or damage to the chassis number, the vehicle will be declared smuggled and confiscated immediately.

3. Objective:

• Curb vehicle smuggling and ensure only legal, safe vehicles operate on roads.
• Deter car theft and illegal trade by making tampering easily detectable.

Public advisory:

• Avoid purchasing any vehicle with suspicious chassis modifications.
• Vehicle owners are urged to get forensic verification to confirm legal status.