Suspects allegedly involved in the illegal cigarette trade attacked a Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) enforcement team in Bahawalpur, took back part of a seized consignment and threatened the officials with death.
According to sources, Inland Revenue officials had received information about the transportation of illegal cigarettes in a vehicle registered as AHE-895. The team intercepted the vehicle and seized the stock.
Suspects Take Back 15 Cartons
The operation turned violent when a group of suspects allegedly confronted the officials, assaulted them and tried to stop the enforcement action.
The suspects reportedly managed to take away around 15 cartons of cigarettes from the seized consignment. The stock included Marvon, Honda and Pine brands.
Police Register Case Against 15 Suspects
Following a complaint by the Inland Revenue officials, police registered a case at Saddar Police Station in Bahawalpur.
The FIR includes charges related to assaulting government employees, obstructing official work, criminal intimidation and interfering with lawful proceedings.
The case has been registered under Sections 382, 342, 186, 355, 148, 149 and 506-B of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Police have nominated 15 suspects, including Azam, Shahzad, Muhammad Ali, Tariq Ali, Mushtaq Ahmed and Talib Rasool.
Pressure on Enforcement Teams
The incident highlights the challenges faced by government officials trying to curb the illegal cigarette trade, particularly when enforcement operations face physical resistance.
The FBR has continued action against illegal cigarette manufacturing and distribution, including sealing an unlicensed cigarette factory in Karachi. A substantial portion of Pakistan’s cigarette market has also shifted to illegal operators, according to earlier reports.
Authorities now face pressure to pursue those accused in the Bahawalpur incident and provide protection to officials conducting anti-smuggling and tax enforcement operations.
