FBR Launches Countrywide Crackdown Against Illicit Sale of Counterfeit and Non-stamped Cigarettes

Islamabad, The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has launched a major crackdown on counterfeit and non-stamped cigarettes, seizing over 1,235 packerites of cigarettes valued at approximately Rs. 96 million. This operation, conducted by the Inland Revenue (IR) Field Formations, is part of a broader effort to combat the illicit tobacco trade and enforce compliance with government regulations.

According to Press Information Department, the operation was carried out under the direct supervision of Member Inland Revenue (Operations) Mir Badshah Khan Wazir, following the directives of FBR Chairman Malik Amjed Zubair Tiwana. During the crackdown, a total of 4,652 retail outlets across the country were visited, resulting in the sealing of 33 outlets found to be engaged in illicit tobacco sales.

The operation involved 204 teams comprising 1,047 personnel from the Inland Revenue Enforcement Network, underscoring the FBR’s commitment to addressing the problem of illicit cigarette sales. Chairman Tiwana and Member Wazir praised the efforts of the IR field formations, acknowledging the challenges they faced due to limited human resources and logistics.

The FBR leadership emphasized that those involved in illicit tobacco trade and tax evasion would face strict consequences, with potential penal proceedings under the relevant rules. The FBR indicated that repeat offenders would likely face arrest in the next phase of the crackdown.

The crackdown represents a significant step in FBR’s ongoing efforts to curb the illegal tobacco trade, ensuring compliance with taxation laws and safeguarding government revenue.