2023 Pakistan black market crackdown
This article's factual accuracy is disputed. (October 2024) |
In early September 2023, the Pakistani government under administration of the Pakistan Armed Forces initiated a crackdown targeting both individuals and organizations engaged in various forms of smuggling, with a particular focus on essential commodities such as wheat, sugar, urea, oil, dollars as well as power theft, hoarding, and illegal currency exchange.[3][4] The crackdown was announced by Asim Munir.[5]
| Date | Early September 2023 |
|---|---|
| Location | Nationwide in Pakistan |
| Participants | Government of Pakistan Pakistan Armed Forces[1] Law enforcement agencies |
| Outcome |
|
Major operations
editPower theft
editThe government's crackdown against power theft, hoarding, and smuggling remains in full swing across the country. In the ongoing nationwide effort to combat power theft, authorities have successfully recovered over Rs950 million rupees with nearly 500 individuals arrested involved in electricity theft.[6] The Senate Standing Committee on Power has commended the Power Division for its prompt and effective actions in addressing line losses and electricity theft across various DISCOs (Distribution Companies).[7]
Dollar smuggling
editAs part of the crackdown against illegal foreign currency exchange operations, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) conducted raids on illicit money exchange dealers in Rawalpindi, resulting in the arrest of four individuals engaged in illegal currency exchange businesses.[8]
Others goods smuggling
editThe government has significantly ramped up its efforts to combat sugar smuggling. Pakistan Customs in September 2023 conducted an intensified anti-smuggling campaign across the country, resulting in the seizure of essential commodities valued at 2.25 billion rupees. The seized items encompassed a wide range of essential goods, including sugar, urea, petroleum, currency, tires, black tea, vehicles, iron, steel, and various other commodities.[9]
Impact
editThe crackdown had a substantial impact on curbing illicit activities throughout the country. It not only resulted in the recovery of substantial sums of money but also led to the apprehension of numerous individuals engaged in these unlawful practices.[10][11]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "Pakistan army chief says actions to continue against 'illegal activities' harming economy". Arab News PK. 28 September 2023.
- ^ Abbas, Waheed. "Pakistan: Crackdown against illegal currency market eliminates black-market rate". Khaleej Times.
- ^ https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/pakistans-military-helps-stifle-currency-black-market-stabilise-rupee-2023-09-14/
- ^ Jamal, Nasir (25 September 2023). "The dollar galore in grey market". DAWN.COM.
- ^ "Pakistan's crackdown on Iran trade drives up prices – DW – 09/26/2023". dw.com.
- ^ "Power theft campaign: hundreds arrested, millions of rupees recovered". Business Recorder. 14 September 2023.
- ^ "Senate body applauds Power Division for taking swift action against line losses, electricity theft". www.app.com.pk. 14 September 2023.
- ^ "Pakistan Cracks Down On Illegal Currency Markets After Rupee Falls". RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty. 11 September 2023.
- ^ "Crackdown against power theft, hoarding & smuggling continues across country". The Nation. 12 September 2023.
- ^ "Govt launches crackdown against smugglers, hoarders and hawala brokers". 24newshd.tv.
- ^ Ahmed, Baseer (10 September 2023). "Large-scale crackdown against smugglers continues across country".