Islamabad: Pakistan Customs has seized over 303 kilograms of smuggled gold over the past ten years as part of its ongoing operations against illicit trade, according to official documents. The seized quantity is equivalent to more than seven mounds (man) of gold. These enforcement actions span the fiscal years 2014-15 to 2024-25.
The documents reveal that the highest number of smuggling cases and gold seizures occurred in the fiscal year 2017-18, when over 58 kilograms of gold were recovered and 53 cases were registered. The second-highest record was set in 2020-21, when 48 kilograms of gold were confiscated in 62 separate cases.
The report further highlights that during the past two years — 2022-23 and 2023-24 — there has been a notable decline in gold smuggling, with the lowest quantities recovered during this period. Customs officials interpret this as a positive sign of reduced smuggling activity, though they emphasize the need for stricter and more effective measures to fully eliminate illegal trade.
According to authorities, surveillance at border areas, airports, and international transit points is being intensified. In addition, advanced technology and intelligence-sharing mechanisms are being integrated into operations to dismantle organized smuggling networks.
