Islamabad: A Senate sub-committee has raised alarm over the issues of smuggling, tax evasion, and revenue losses during a meeting held at Parliament House. Officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) briefed the committee on various ongoing inquiries and actions being taken to address these concerns, including the smuggling of petroleum products and the lack of enforcement in certain regions.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the sub-committee meeting, led by Senator Saifullah Abro, focused on the significant seizure of petroleum worth Rs. 222 million by customs authorities over the past five years. Senator Abro questioned the destination of the smuggled fuel and emphasized the need for a comprehensive report tracing its movement. Notices have been issued to concerned authorities, and a letter was sent to the Chief Secretary of Balochistan to address petroleum-related issues.

The committee was informed of tax exemptions in regions such as FATA and PATA, which have become hubs of smuggling. Senator Abro expressed concerns over the economic impact, urging for action to curb these activities. The sub-committee plans to summon the CEO of TESCO and obtain detailed data on goods transported to tax-exempt areas.

Further, the committee addressed issues related to the tobacco industry, with a focus on monitoring stock movement and enhancing tax collection. Measures to encourage integrity among officers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were also discussed, with several disciplinary actions reported against dishonest officials.

A separate case involving embezzlement in a major transmission line project was also highlighted. Senator Abro directed the FIA and NAB to take action against those involved. The meeting underscored the urgent need to address petroleum smuggling in Balochistan, with reports of diesel being sold at high prices and significant quantities seized.

Customs officials noted their limited operational presence in certain districts and highlighted the open cultivation of cannabis and opium in Qila Abdullah. The committee called for strict action against non-performing customs officials and monitoring of their assets.

The meeting concluded with a directive for detailed data on petroleum supplies to Balochistan and complete details of companies operating in tax-exempt areas to be submitted in future discussions.