Islamabad, Mar 4, 2025: The Excise Department in Karachi has confiscated multiple vehicles utilized by customs officials as part of an ongoing crackdown on unauthorized number plates and tax evaders.
According to sources, excise teams conducted checks at Sea View, intercepting several government-plated vehicles. Upon examination, it was revealed that all the vehicles bearing decorative number plates had altered chassis numbers and were in use by customs personnel.
During the operation, customs officials inside the vehicles summoned backup for assistance. The situation intensified when customs officers allegedly confronted the excise team, with reports stating that a senior customs official managed to escape with his vehicle amidst the commotion.
The Deputy Director of Excise and Taxation emphasized that the use of government plates on tampered vehicles is unlawful and that such automobiles will be confiscated. He further assured that legal proceedings would be initiated against individuals who obstructed the excise team’s operations.
On the other hand, Deputy Collector of Customs Raza Ali argued that the interception of their vehicles was unwarranted, insisting that the modified vehicles were being used under legitimate provisions.
Sindh’s Minister for Excise, Mukesh Chawla, confirmed that five vehicles had been seized over the weekend and reaffirmed that the crackdown on tampered government-plated vehicles would persist.
