Pakistan Customs foiled an attempt on Saturday to game the Faceless Customs Assessment System (FCAS), a newly launched system aimed at ensuring speedy and quality assessments.
A press release stated, “Such an attempt was quite expected, and the Karachi Customs team, tasked with its operations, was directed by the FBR to exercise constant vigilance in this regard.”
The individuals attempting to game the FCAS have been taken to task, with customs licenses of 45 agents involved in the attempt being suspended by Karachi Customs, and show-cause notices being issued in accordance with the Customs Agents Rules.
An appraising officer found to be conniving in the attempt was suspended by the FBR on Friday, and formal inquiry has been initiated against him under the Efficiency and Discipline Rules.
Furthermore, a criminal case has been filed against the culprits, including agents, the appraising officer, and some private individuals found involved in the attempt to game the FCAS.
“A team of investigators has been formed, and three individuals have already been arrested. Raids are being conducted to apprehend the remaining culprits and bring them to justice.”
The FBR assured that the FCAS is “working smoothly,” with no backlog of Customs clearances.
