The Senate has ordered the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to investigate an alleged Rs1.12 trillion tax loss linked to Pakistan’s cigarette sector, as an arrested Customs inspector appeared before the committee.

The Customs inspector, Christopher, was produced before the Senate Subcommittee on Interior during its proceedings. He was reportedly arrested by the FIA over an allegation of accepting a bribe.

The committee, chaired by Senator Saifullah Abro, directed the FIA to conduct a detailed investigation covering cigarette manufacturers and brands and submit its findings within two months.

Abro said the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had not undertaken the required investigation, prompting the committee to assign the matter to the FIA.

The inquiry comes amid broader concerns raised by lawmakers over cigarette smuggling, tax-related irregularities and the role of customs officials in the movement and clearance of cigarette consignments.

The committee’s decision brings the alleged Rs1.12 trillion tax issue under a formal FIA investigation, with the agency now responsible for determining the scale of the alleged loss and identifying those responsible, if wrongdoing is established.