Federal Tax Ombudsman Investigated the Allegations on Misappropriation and Theft of Valuable Articles at Customs Warehouses --- Directions issued to FBR

An Own Motion investigation was conducted under Section 9(1) of the Federal Tax Ombudsman Ordinance, 2000, regarding allegations of misappropriation and theft of valuable articles including currencies and precious metals at Customs Warehouses. The investigation, prompted by numerous complaints, uncovered significant discrepancies in the handling of seized goods. Multiple complaints alleged negligence and inefficiency leading to misappropriation or theft of seized valuable articles.

The Collector, Collectorate of Customs Appraisement (West), reported no incidents of theft, with all goods under auction process. The Collector, Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement) Lahore, acknowledged theft/misappropriation of 54 out of 100 items, with the remaining 46 still in the warehouse. Other field formations provided varying reports, some indicating deposits in banks while others showing goods still in warehouses.

Deficiencies identified include failure to deposit goods into designated banks, Lack of clarity on auction proceedings and current status of items, Incomplete information provided by field offices. FTO direct all field offices to complete missing information and details and ensure deposit of valuable articles, especially gold/cash, in designated banks to prevent theft/misappropriation. Also order to provide clear status of adjudication proceedings and actively pursue cases of theft/misappropriation. Report compliance within 60 days.

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