MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has intensified efforts to curb the smuggling of non-duty paid cigarettes into Pakistan, particularly during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, sources revealed.
According to insiders, elements involved in the illegal cigarette trade have devised a plan to smuggle non-duty paid cigarettes from Mirpur and Bhimber into Pakistan, exploiting the relaxed monitoring during the festive period. In response, the AJK government has imposed Section 144 from March 31 to April 2 to prevent any unlawful transportation of tobacco products.
In a proactive move, Deputy Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Muhammad Ali Asghar, has ordered strict monitoring and enhanced surveillance at key checkpoints to counter the smuggling of raw tobacco and illicit cigarettes. Special vigilance teams have been deployed to intercept illegal transportation and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
Earlier, the AJK Inland Revenue and Excise Department, assisted by local police, successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle non-duty paid cigarettes worth millions of rupees from a well-known manufacturer, National Tobacco Company, in Bhimber.
During the operation, the Excise Mobile Squad in Bhimber intercepted a suspicious Loader Ford Wagon (registration number J-4796). Upon inspection, authorities discovered 70 cartons of Kisan brand cigarettes being transported without the required legal documentation. Initial investigations revealed that the consignment had been loaded from the National Tobacco Factory in Bhimber and was destined for Nowshera Virkan.
Following the bust, authorities sealed the premises of the factory and initiated legal action against the cigarette manufacturer. The government has since reinforced Section 144 restrictions to further curb smuggling from Mirpur and Bhimber into Pakistan.
With the Eid holidays often providing a window for illegal activities, AJK authorities are determined to clamp down on illicit tobacco trade, ensuring compliance with tax regulations and protecting government revenue.
