Major gold smuggling case comes to light
This has been occurring in connivance with officials from the Trading Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Airport Security Force, Customs and airlines, The Express Tribune has learnt through FIA sources.
FIA Punjab’s recent investigation revealed that in one major case 230 kg of gold ornaments had been smuggled to Dubai with the support of departments named above.
Export of gold ornaments on a large scale is a clear violation of SRO number 266(1)/2001 dated 07-05-2001 issued by the Ministry of Commerce, Government of Pakistan. As per clause 6(iv) of the SRO,
“The sale proceeds shall be realised within 120 days from the date of export in foreign exchange through normal banking channel or partially in the form of gold contents of the jewellery exported including wastage and gemstones.”
FIA’s investigation states that there was no remittance for the exported gold. Imran Nawaz and his company Hunain Enterprises’ account, upon verification, showed that no proceeds in foreign exchange have been remitted.
Co-accused Bashir Ahmed Chaudhry, Inspector Customs and Shah Faisal, Superintendent Customs were also arrested in the case who are presently on post-arrest bail. Other co-accused Ali Ammar Abbasi obtained pre-arrest bail.
Issues requiring further probe
Evidence regarding his business worth, quantum of transactions, purpose of such transactions and his source of finance is missing.
Some of the people have claimed that they had sold gold to the accused, his brother and father. Abid Hussain and Haji Riaz Ahmed were summoned.
Five individuals – Kamran Nawaz, brother of the culprit, Hafiz Ikraam, Chairman Sarafa Bazaar Gujranwala, Rehan, Riwan and Arshad Danyal – have been summoned.
FIA Punjab Director Zafar Ahmad Qureshi said that when the FIA sought records from TDAP and customs hey showed their reluctance.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 20th, 2010.
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