PM Reveals 27,000 Vehicles in Daily Iranian Oil Smuggling

Abdullah

11 Oct 2023

298

PM Reveals 27,000 Vehicles in Daily Iranian Oil Smuggling

In a significant revelation, the Caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaarul Haq Kakar, has exposed a critical issue afflicting Pakistan – the daily infiltration of approximately 27,000 vehicles engaged in the illegal smuggling of Iranian oil. This revelation not only underscores the sheer scale of the problem but also unveils a troubling collaboration between smugglers and local authorities. The viewers can get detailed information regarding Caretaker PM Exposes Challenges of Iranian Oil Smuggling.

The Smuggling Operation

PM Kakar, during an informal interaction with the media, disclosed that smuggled Iranian oil was making its way into Pakistan daily, aided by bribes ranging from Rs. 125,000 to Rs. 150,000 per vehicle, paid to the deputy commissioner. What's even more alarming is that individuals instrumental in these appointments were purportedly receiving shares of the spoils.

Existential Threat to Pakistan

Describing the situation as an "existential threat to Pakistan," the PM emphasized the urgent need for a crackdown. He pointed out that if left unaddressed, smuggling and illegal currency trading could push the rupee-dollar exchange rate beyond Rs. 350. PM Kakar highlighted that unemployment in Balochistan had been exploited to shield and promote smuggling, with deliberate vacancies in government positions seen as a strategy to justify the continuation of smuggling in the region.

A Decisive Response

In response to this crisis, both the military and civil leadership have jointly initiated a comprehensive campaign against smuggling. This marks the second crackdown in three years aimed at curbing the illegal flow of Iranian oil into Pakistan. The PM credited the military for its significant role in this operation.

Prior Endeavors

It's worth noting that in 2020, the government launched a crackdown against the smuggling of petroleum, oil, and lubricants (POL) products from Iran, estimated to be worth approximately US$2 billion annually. Previous efforts included sealing illegal POL retail outlets, filing FIRs, and applying for asset freezing. A 2018 customs department study revealed a staggering revenue loss of about $3.5 billion in duties and taxes due to smuggling in just 11 commodities, emphasizing the gravity of the issue.

Unveiling a Complex Challenge

PM Kakar's recent revelations shed light on the intricate web of smuggling that poses a severe threat to Pakistan's economic stability. The ongoing crackdown signifies a determined effort to address this longstanding and multifaceted challenge.

Iranian Oil Smuggling Caretaker Prime Minister Pakistan Smuggling Operation Existential Threat RupeeDollar Exchange Rate Balochistan Military Operation Crackdown on Smuggling Economic Stability

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