The Ministry of Interior took an important decision and empowered Islamabad Police with powers to take action against smuggling under the Customs Act.
The Ministry of Interior informed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman about the development. It is relevant to mention here that the Rangers, Coast Guards, and Frontier Constabulary (FC) already have these powers.
Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police also got the authority to seize non-customs vehicles.
Read more: PM thanks Army Chief Gen Asim Munir for helping eliminate smuggling
Earlier, the Pakistan Army paid rich tributes to the eight customs officials who laid their lives in the line of duty in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in two separate incidents in April 2024.
Earlier, in a statement issued, Pakistan Amry spokesperson said that in due recognition of this selfless sacrifice in the fight against illegal spectrum and as an expression of solidarity, Senior Army Commanders visited the martyrs' families at their home towns to express condolences, pay tribute, and pledge unflinching support on behalf of COAS.
The families expressed their gratitude to the Army for their support and respect, he added.
Shuhadas and Ghazis are our pride and their respect and honour are binding on each Pakistani, the statement reads.
"We must never forget that the peace and freedom we enjoy today is due to the ultimate sacrifices rendered by these brave sons of soil. We as a nation salute Shuhada families for sacrificing their loved ones for Pakistan," the statement added.
3 terrorists killed in Khyber district
On 24-25 April 2024, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in Khyber District, on the reported presence of terrorists.
During the conduct of operation, intense fire exchange took place between own troops and terrorists, as a result of which three terrorists were sent to hell including terrorist ringleader Sohail aka Azmato and terrorist ringleader Haji Gul aka Zarkavi. “Terrorists’ hideout was also busted during the operation,” the statement reads.
Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area.
Locals of the area appreciated the operation. Sanitization operation is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area as security forces are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.