Imtiaz Super Store, D. Watson, Shaheen grocery among stores under renewed Customs scrutiny

ISLAMABAD (Ahsan Bukhari): A fresh investigation has been initiated by Customs authorities after the owners of six stores, including Imtiaz Super Store and D. Watson Chemist, submitted Goods Declarations (GDs) and claimed that the seized imported products had been brought into the country in accordance with the law.

According to details, Customs had earlier received information alleging that smuggled goods were being sold at several outlets, including Imtiaz Super Store, D. Watson Chemist in Gulberg Greens, Shaheen Grocery, Lifestyle Collection, and Hayees Store located in Safa Gold Mall.

Acting on the information, teams from the Customs CIU unit conducted raids and seized foreign perfumes, shoes, chocolates, cosmetics and other imported items worth hundreds of thousands of rupees.

During the raids, the management of the stores reportedly failed to provide import-related documents on the spot. As a result, Customs officials seized large quantities of goods on suspicion of violations of the import policy and directed the store owners to furnish the required documentation within three days, warning that legal proceedings could otherwise be initiated.

The raids caused considerable disruption at the targeted outlets, particularly Imtiaz Super Store and D. Watson Chemist in Gulberg Greens.

However, nearly two weeks after the operation, the owners of the stores submitted GDs and other import documents to Customs authorities, maintaining that the goods had been legally imported.

Confirming the development to Ausaf, Deputy Collector Customs Dr. Mudassar said the documents provided by the store owners are being examined, and a formal investigation is underway to determine whether the imported goods comply with relevant laws and regulations.