RECORDER REPORT

ISLAMABAD: Under the ongoing drive against the currency/gold smugglers, customs staff at the Benazir Bhutto International Airport seized foreign currency from an international passenger boarding for Dubai.

According to the details, a passenger was passing through ASF counter international departure hall for flight number PK-233 Islamabad to Dubai. The search of his baggage led to recovery of UAE Dirham and Saudi Riyal i.e. total currency in Rs 3,899,365 concealed in baggage.

The recovered currency has been seized under section 168 Customs Act, 1969 and being notified item under sub-section (s) of section 2 of the Customs Act, 1969. The FIR of the case has been lodged with I&P Branch Collectorate under the Customs Act, 1969 and Foreign Exchange Regulation Act. The accused has been placed under arrest. Further investigation is under way.

It is worth mentioning that Dr Arslan Subuctageen, Collector of Customs, Model Customs Collectorate (MCC) Islamabad, has taken proactive measures to curb smuggling of currency and gold at the Islamabad Airport. For the first time, the VVIP Lounge would be strictly checked and monitored by the special staff of the customs. Moreover, body search of members of other agencies would be carried out on random basis at the airport.

All flights destined to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, China and Bangkok may invariably be rummaged by the vigilance staff. Secondly, at Rawal Lounge International Departure Side, one inspector may remain there to oversee the scanners and carry out body search and personal baggage search. For this exercise help of lady searcher Magdline may be sought as and when required.

Thirdly, the Vigilance Wing may also make its presence felt at the waiting area of International Departure Hall, washrooms and cafeterias to detect any suspicious activities being carried out there. Fourthly, body search of members of other agencies may be undertaken on random basis. Food trolleys and stocks of shops located in departure area may also be examined to create deterrence against any probable attempt. Fifthly, inspection of engineering and catering, services, entering through gammon gate, especially at the time of sensitive flights, may be undertaken as previously ordered.

Sixthly, the random examination of luggage passing through ASF scanners located at exit points on departure side may also be undertaken. Seventh, Vigilance Wing will ensure continuous announcement/display by CAA for creating awareness regarding prevalent rules related to taking in/out of currency.