NHMP foils attempt to smuggle non-customs-paid cigarettes worth PKR 2.2 billion

Islamabad: The National Highways & Motorway Police (NHMP), acting on credible intelligence, successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle a large consignment of non-customs-paid (NCP) cigarettes during a timely and effective operation near Chakri Interchange on the motorway (M-2). During the operation, NHMP officers intercepted and searched 11 trucks, recovering non-customs-paid cigarettes worth approximately PKR 2.2 billion (PKR 220 crore). Preliminary investigations revealed that the smuggled cigarettes were being transported from Peshawar to Lahore. The NHMP took 11 trucks and their 11 drivers into custody. Following the completion of initial legal formalities, the recovered NCP cigarettes, the seized trucks, and the detained suspects were handed over to the Pakistan Customs authorities for further legal proceedings. The National Highways & Motorway Police reaffirmed its commitment to preventing the use of the country’s motorways and highways for smuggling and other unlawful activities. In close coordination with other law enforcement agencies, the NHMP will continue to safeguard national interests through sustained operations against smuggling and organized crime. Our Correspondent