45 diamonds worth Rs13m seized at Lahore Airport

LAHORE:Customs officials at Lahore Airport have seized high-value contraband items, including 45 diamonds worth Rs13 million, luxury 18 watches worth Rs3.8 million, and 195 miscellaneous items collectively valued at Rs18.1 million.

The operation, led by Superintendent Muhammad Javaid, highlights the department’s renewed vigilance under the leadership of Tayyaba Kayani, the newly-appointed Collector of Airports. Talking to The News, Tayyaba Kayani, the Customs Collector shared that the passenger, hailing from Lodhran, was intercepted upon arrival from Dubai. A thorough inspection of his luggage uncovered commercial quantities of prohibited items, including diamonds and restricted goods. The evaded customs duties and taxes on the seized items worth Rs9 million.

She added that the seizure was carried out under the provisions of Sections 15, 16, and 168 of the Customs Act 1969 and Passenger Baggage Rules 2006. The accused was handed over to the Investigation and Prosecution wing for further legal proceedings, said Tayyaba Kayani.

Inspector Muhammad Azhar, who detected the concealment, credited the department's proactive efforts in combating smuggling. Chief Collector Airports Hasan Saqib Sheikh, Additional Collector Hina Gul, and Assistant Collector Simra Azhar commended the team for their vigilance and dedication.

Tayyaba Kayani, said that this successful operation underscores Lahore Customs’ ongoing efforts to curb smuggling and strengthen enforcement measures, ensuring the protection of the national economy. She said that officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the integrity by confiscating smuggled items.