ByMashhud Aslam
Jul 5, 2026 #’Scrap’ AC Smuggling Scandal, #Al Hamd International Container Terminal, #aluminum condenser scrap, #compressor scrap, #demands, #FBR, #imports, #Independent Probe, #iron, #Karachi Businessman, #M/s Shareef Enterprises, #scrap metal, #steel
KARACHI: A prominent local businessman and Chief of Friends of Pakistan (an institution), Amjad Shah, has formally called upon the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to initiate an independent and comprehensive investigation into the recent interception of export consignments mislabeled as scrap metal, which authorities suspect were part of a scheme to smuggle air conditioners out of the country.
The appeal, addressed directly to the FBR Chairman and seen by CustomNews.pk, comes in the wake of a report published on 2 July 2026 detailing the seizure of four containers at the Al Hamd International Container Terminal.
The consignments, filed by M/s Shareef Enterprises, were declared as containing compressor scrap, aluminum condenser scrap, and iron and steel. However, upon examination by Customs Enforcement, officials discovered the containers were packed with new and used air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and a minimal amount of the declared scrap.
Mr. Shah’s letter warns that the incident is far more than a simple case of misdeclaration; it points to the workings of an organized network abusing the customs clearance system. He argues that such a substantial deception, involving multiple stages of documentation, terminal handling, and clearance, could not have occurred without either systemic failure or active facilitation by insiders.
“Restricting the investigation to the intercepted consignments or to subordinate officials would neither serve the ends of justice nor expose the real beneficiaries of the illegal activity,” reads the letter. Mr. Shah is urging that the investigation identify everyone involved—from conception and facilitation to supervision.
In light of the severity of the allegations and the potential involvement of officials, Mr. Shah has recommended the case be handed over to an independent external investigation agency. Alternatively, he suggests the formation of a high-level Joint Investigation Team (JIT) composed of officers with no direct administrative connection to the relevant Collectorate to ensure transparency and impartiality.
The letter specifically calls for the detention of all containers belonging to the concerned exporters, importers, and customs agents currently lying in customs-controlled areas. It demands a comprehensive examination of these containers and that any recovery be made part of the investigation.
Mr. Shah has also requested a forensic review of the customs risk management, profiling, and clearance mechanisms that permitted such consignments to reach the stage of export, bypassing routine checks. Sources revealed that the shipments in question had already been cleared by the Customs Appraisement-West Collectorate and were initially routed through the “Yellow Channel” after the company requested a pre-filing inspection . While scan images showing a mismatch were available in the system, physical inspections were reportedly denied by Deputy Collector Aqsa Aslam, at the request of a higher official.
The businessman has stressed that accountability must not stop at field staff. “The investigation must determine whether officers occupying supervisory and decision-making positions exercised proper oversight, ignored warning signs, or otherwise facilitated the movement of misdeclared consignments,” he stated. He emphasized that public confidence in the enforcement process depends on whether those exercising real authority are subjected to the same standard of accountability as subordinate officials.
Mr. Shah specifically mentioned Collector Customs (Enforcement), Mr. Umar Shafiq, known for his aggressive stance on anti-smuggling operations . He expects him to ensure the investigation reaches the actual facilitators and masterminds rather than ending with action against only subordinate officials.
The businessman concluded his letter by requesting the FBR ensure a transparent, evidence-based, and fearless investigation, so that all persons found involved, whether in the private sector or public service, are proceeded against strictly in accordance with law.