FBR abolishes Customs Intelligence department over poor performance

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has taken drastic measures to address the Customs Intelligence Department’s poor performance and alleged involvement in smuggling.

This decision was made under the directives of the Prime Minister, who has also outlined reforms and a new organizational structure for the department.

As part of its restructuring efforts, the FBR has limited the role of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation division to monitoring only, stripping it of its authority to stop or release consignments.

Additionally, all powers of the Customs Intelligence department have been transferred to the Director General Enforcement, including control of department warehouses and staff.

Several FBR Customs offices have been shut down, including those in Rawalpindi, Multan, Hyderabad, and Gwadar. The remaining offices are expected to close within the next 10 to 15 days.

This move comes after the FBR removed 27 high-ranking officials from their posts in July, citing intelligence reports ¹. The restructuring aims to improve the department’s performance and prevent smuggling activities.

The FBR’s efforts to revamp the Customs Intelligence department are part of its broader strategy to enhance revenue collection and prevent corruption. The FBR hopes to improve efficiency and effectiveness in its customs operations by streamlining operations and transferring powers to the DG Enforcement.