Hidden Chinese Salt and Cigarettes Recovered in Customs Raid
Customs smuggling attempt FEU Ziarat Cross was successfully foiled by authorities in Balochistan. Officials intercepted a refrigerated container carrying concealed foreign-origin goods at FEU Ziarat Cross. The operation prevented a major illegal trade movement across provinces.
Customs smuggling attempt FEU Ziarat Cross began when officers stopped vehicle TLH-218. The truck was transporting a reefer container under suspicious conditions. The interception took place two days before the disclosure of full recovery details.
During initial questioning, the driver claimed official clearance. He presented a movement authorization allegedly issued by the Ministry of Interior. The document also carried an endorsement described as countersigned by Collector Customs.
However, inconsistencies quickly emerged. The driver later changed his statement. He claimed the cargo was loaded from Hazar Ganji, Quetta. This contradiction raised immediate concerns among officials.
Customs smuggling attempt FEU Ziarat Cross intensified suspicion due to route mismatch. The declared route was Mangochar to Multan. Officers noted irregularities in transporting vegetable cargo across such long distances.
Authorities proceeded with a full physical inspection despite resistance. The reefer container was opened for detailed checking. Initially, only potatoes were visible in the front section.
Further inspection revealed hidden layers. Officials discovered sacks of foreign-origin Chinese salt concealed beneath the potatoes. The bags were carefully packed to avoid detection.
Customs smuggling attempt FEU Ziarat Cross further exposed cartons of foreign-origin cigarettes. These cartons were hidden under the vegetable load. The concealment method suggested organized smuggling activity.
The recovered inventory included 70 cartons of cigarettes. Each carton contained 50 sleeves. Officials also seized 250 bags of Chinese salt, each weighing 25 kilograms.
Additionally, 250 bags of potatoes were found. These potatoes were rotten and unfit for human consumption. A truck trailer along with the reefer container was also seized.
Officials stated that the concealment method indicated planned smuggling. The use of vegetables appeared designed to mislead inspection teams. Authorities also suspected misuse of official-looking documentation.
Customs smuggling attempt FEU Ziarat Cross is now under further investigation. Authorities are tracing the origin and destination of the goods. They are also investigating the wider network involved in the operation.
