Customs authorities at Islamabad Airport have seized over two dozen imported phones, including the newly launched iPhone 16 Pro Max, in a significant crackdown on smuggling activities.

According to reports, customs officials intercepted a passenger arriving from the UAE and confiscated 30 iPhone 16 Pro Max units. The passenger, identified as a resident of Quetta, was allegedly in contact with a customs staff member to facilitate the smuggling attempt. However, other customs officials successfully thwarted the operation.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max, recently launched, is in high demand, with dealers in Pakistan reportedly earning substantial profits by importing the phones without paying the required duties and selling them in the local market.

Customs officials have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the passenger involved in the smuggling attempt. However, the FIR does not mention the customs official allegedly in contact with the passenger to clear the phones.

This incident follows a similar seizure at Islamabad Airport a few days ago, where customs staff confiscated phones but did not file an FIR. According to regulations, the Customs Department is required to register an FIR for seizures exceeding Rs. 5 million in value.