The planned auction of more than 10,000 confiscated mobile phones has hit a roadblock due to delays in the whitelisting process by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

These devices, seized at major airports including Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad, cannot be activated or sold without clearance through PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS).

Customs officials report that despite submitting multiple written requests to the PTA, the whitelisting process remains incomplete. The delay is particularly concerning as premium devices, including iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models, continue to depreciate in value while awaiting clearance.

“This situation is blocking potentially millions of rupees in government revenue,” a customs official stated. The Customs Department has not only submitted formal lists to the PTA but also proposed a system integration solution that would automate the whitelisting process for confiscated phones nationwide.

When contacted, a PTA representative denied receiving any formal requests regarding the whitelisting of these devices.