LAHORE – Customs officials foiled an attempt to smuggle diamonds and other valuable items into Pakistan through Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore.
The action was taken by a team led by Customs officer Sumra Azhar after finding the luggage of a passenger suspicious.
According to the spokesperson, the luggage of passenger Khalid Rashid, arriving from Dubai, was considered suspicious and searched. During the search, 45 diamonds, 18 watches, and other items were found, with a total value exceeding Rs18 million.
The spokesperson added that all items have been confiscated, and a case has been filed against the passenger, adding that investigation has been launched into the matter.
At all international airports in Pakistan, there are two channels – Red and Green – for clearance of goods.
Green Channel, as the color signifies, means freely passing without any Customs formalities. This is for the passengers who do not carry articles or goods that are restricted or in excess of the admissible duty-free allowance, if any.
Customs officials are authorized to randomly request the passengers availing the facility of Green Channel to allow scanning of their luggage and if necessary to allow physical examination by opening the luggage. This is normal custom procedure adopted worldwide to counter misuse of Green Channel facility.
Red Channel, as the color signifies, means passing after completion of customs formalities. This is for the passengers having restricted or dutiable articles or goods.
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