Mobile phone smuggling is common in Pakistan, and authorities are looking for new ways to combat it. According to the most recent government assessment, Dubai is frequently used as the primary gateway for smuggled mobile phones into Pakistan. According to sources, this smuggling occurs at several airports, including those in Peshawar, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Karachi. Individuals engaging in these smuggling activities, on the other hand, include porters, children, and minor smugglers who carry mobile phones across the Angoor Adda and Chaman border crossings.
Dubai has emerged as Pakistan’s most popular route for cellphone smuggling
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According to research, over 1,500 petty smugglers cross the Friendship Gate at the Chaman border every day, with each individual bringing one or two cell phones into Pakistan. The Prime Minister’s Secretariat has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other relevant authorities to investigate over 80 personnel suspected of smuggling. According to the sources, these officials have connections with 46 smugglers and 92 mobile phone alteration sellers. Some law enforcement authorities are said to be supporting the organized smuggling enterprise. The consolidated final report, with specific recommendations, will be distributed soon.
According to the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), mobile phone smuggling cost the national government $1.1 billion in 2021-22.
How to make smuggled phones usable in Pakistan
To make smuggled phones viable in Pakistan, mobile phone sellers replace the IMEI of new, costly phones with old, cheaper ones. Mobile phone brands such as Infinix, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and others are commonly utilized to modify smuggled phones. Furthermore, some sellers change the IMEI number using CPID-paid software, which is available at www.cpidserver.com.
The PM Secretariat recommends a rotational policy for law enforcement personnel at entry and departure points to prevent collaboration with smugglers.
(PTA) is directed to take action against www.cpidserver.com.
