ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterating resolve to purge country of smuggling directed authorities concerned to accelerate countrywide drive against menace.

Chairing high-level meeting to curb smuggling, paid tribute to Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir for his full cooperation with government in its endeavour against smuggling. Report of investigation committee headed by AD Khawaja was also presented in meeting. He lauded committee for identifying elements involved in misuse of Afghan Transit Trade for smuggling and officers facilitating them.

He was told that list of smugglers, hoarders and their facilitating officers have been forwarded to law enforcement agencies and provincial governments. He directed for removing identified officers from their respective posts and initiate disciplinary proceedings against them. He asked LEAs and intelligence agencies to cooperate with each other to curb smuggling. Calling for punishing smugglers and drug dealers, he asked Law Ministry to carry out immediate necessary legislation for purpose.

He emphasised more swift and effective monitoring of sale and smuggling of Afghan Transit Trade goods in country and called for third party audit of monitoring system.

He ordered to ensure complete elimination of sugar smuggling and immediate release of funds to examine prevalence of drugs consumption at national level. Meeting was apprised of smuggling, misuse of Afghan Transit Trade, drugs, besides sugar, wheat, fertilizer, petroleum products and illegal weapons.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 20 2024

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