2023-2024 Pakistan crackdown
Date2023-2024 (ongoing)
LocationNationwide, Pakistan
ParticipantsGovernment of Pakistan, Law enforcement agencies
Outcome
  • Recovery of over 27 million rupees from power theft
  • Arrest of 194 electricity thieves
  • Seizure of commodities worth 2.25 billion rupees
  • Arrests related to illegal currency exchange

In early September 2023, the Pakistani government initiated a comprehensive crackdown targeting both individuals and organizations engaged in various forms of smuggling, with a particular focus on essential commodities such as wheat, sugar, urea, oil, and dollars. as well as power theft, hoarding, and illegal currency exchange.[1][2]

The interim Interior Minister, Sarfaraz Bugti, has issued a stern warning to those participating in these illegal activities. To facilitate reporting and cooperation from the public, a toll-free hotline has been established at the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the Interior Ministry, allowing any Pakistani citizen to call and assist the government in its efforts.[3]

This crackdown is a pivotal component of a broader strategy aimed at combating illicit activities that pose a significant threat to the country's economy.[4]

Major Operations

Power theft

The government's crackdown against power theft, hoarding, and smuggling remains in full swing across the country. In the ongoing nationwide effort to combat power theft, authorities have successfully recovered over Rs950 million rupees with nearly 500 individuals arrested involved in electricity theft.[5] The Senate Standing Committee on Power has commended the Power Division for its prompt and effective actions in addressing line losses and electricity theft across various DISCOs (Distribution Companies).[6]

Dollar Smuggling

The caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, has reiterated the government's determination to take strong and decisive measures against individuals and entities engaged in smuggling and illicit trade.[7] As part of the ongoing campaign against illegal foreign currency exchange operations, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) conducted raids on illicit money exchange dealers in Rawalpindi, resulting in the arrest of four individuals engaged in illegal currency exchange businesses.[8]

Others goods smuggling

The government has significantly ramped up its efforts to combat sugar smuggling. Pakistan Customs, during the past two weeks, conducted an intensified anti-smuggling campaign across the country, resulting in the seizure of essential commodities valued at 2.25 billion rupees. The seized items encompassed a wide range of essential goods, including sugar, urea, petroleum, currency, tires, black tea, vehicles, iron, steel, and various other commodities.[9]

Impact

The crackdown has made a substantial impact in curbing illicit activities throughout the country. It has not only resulted in the recovery of substantial sums of money but has also led to the apprehension of numerous individuals engaged in these unlawful practices. Nevertheless, it's imperative for the government to maintain its vigilance and continue these efforts in order to eliminate these illicit activities from the country. Ongoing diligence is key to sustained success in this endeavor.[10][11]

References

  1. ↑ "MSN". MSN.
  2. ↑ "MSN". MSN.
  3. ↑ "Interior minister says prize money to be given to informants against smuggling, hoarding". DAWN.COM. September 10, 2023.
  4. ↑ Shahid, Ariba; Ali, Mushtaq; Shahid, Ariba (September 14, 2023). "Pakistan's military helps stifle currency black market to stabilise rupee". Reuters – via www.reuters.com.
  5. ↑ Desk, BR Web (September 14, 2023). "Power theft campaign: hundreds arrested, millions of rupees recovered". Brecorder.
  6. ↑ "Senate body applauds Power Division for taking swift action against line losses, electricity theft".
  7. ↑ "PM expresses resolve to take action against those involved in smuggling, illicit trade". www.radio.gov.pk.
  8. ↑ "Pakistan Cracks Down On Illegal Currency Markets After Rupee Falls". RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty. September 11, 2023.
  9. ↑ "Crackdown against power theft, hoarding & smuggling continues across country". The Nation. September 12, 2023.
  10. ↑ "Govt launches crackdown against smugglers, hoarders and hawala brokers". 24newshd.tv.
  11. ↑ https://www.bolnews.com/latest/2023/09/large-scale-crackdown-against-smugglers-continues-across-country/
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