TORKHAM: A large cache of smuggled arms concealed in the secret chambers of an otherwise empty-looking truck, coming from Afghanistan, has been seized by Customs Preventive, (Peshawar) here at the border.
According to details over 200 guns (Tomahawk, Maverick, KRAL (A-12) and Zirve) of different specifications and magazines had been seized and a case under the Customs Act, 1969 had been registered. Since the driver, who bolted, left his passport behind, the investigators are hopeful to reach the smugglers soon with the support of counter terrorism department.
Experts are of the view that smuggling was being carried out by an organised gang as manifested by the way weapons were concealed. It is believed that the weapons could have been meant for carrying out acts of terrorism in addition to other criminal activities in Pakistan.
Ir is pertinent to mention here that in the month of July 2019, PTI-government had decided to commence a nationwide crackdown against illegal trade and use of smuggled items in Pakistan.
It may be recalled that few days ago Customs Preventive Peshawar had foiled an attempt to smuggle 3.5 million Saudi riyals to Afghanistan.
A relevant piece published earlier:
Afghan Presidential elections: Pakistan decides to open Pak-Afghan border
ISLAMABAD: Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Muhammad Faisal, in his message on Twitter on Friday said that Pakistan has decided to open major border terminals to facilitate movement of Afghan citizen across Pakistan Afghanistan border, so that they are able to exercise their right to vote during presidential election in Afghanistan.
He said that Pakistan received a request from Afghanistan Ministry of Defense on very short notice for border facilitation and opening of border crossings during Afghan Presidential elections to be held on 28 September.
