Pakistan Post tightens checks over NCP goods

RAWALPINDI:

Pakistan Post has raised the alarm over a renewed rise in the booking of non-customs-paid (NCP) goods from post offices in Balochistan after multiple parcels were recently seized by customs authorities.

Officials have taken formal notice of the incidents, which they say risk exposing the organisation to legal complications and operational delays.

The issue resurfaced months after a police raid in Hub in July, during which postal staff were taken into custody on suspicion of handling NCP consignments, an action that later saw several police personnel suspended for overstepping legal authority.

With fresh warnings from customs about illicit items entering the postal stream, Pakistan Post headquarters has issued new, stricter directives to its nationwide network.

According to the instructions, all counter staff must thoroughly inspect the contents of domestic and international parcels before booking them to ensure no prohibited or non-customs-paid items are transported.

Senders will now be required to present their original identity card, submit a copy and provide complete details of both addresses, including postal codes and phone numbers.

The orders make clear that any future seizure of parcels or merchandise by customs authorities will place responsibility squarely on the concerned circle, unit or post office.

The move is aimed at tightening compliance, preventing misuse of the postal system, and ensuring that Pakistan Post is not drawn into violations of customs law.