- Dispute Erupts Within Customs Over Illegal Export of Donkey Hides from Karachi Port
By Imran Khan
KARACHI — A serious jurisdictional and procedural dispute has emerged between two major wings of Pakistan Customs over the attempted illegal export of donkey hides from the Karachi Port, raising concerns about internal oversight and regulatory compliance.
According to credible sources, a consignment declared as “leather goods” was cleared by the Collectorate of Customs Exports (SAPT) under the name of M/s Wow Trading (NTN-9979285), intended for shipment to China via M/s Fair Trade Impex. The container, bearing number SEGU3154225, was selected for examination by the Deputy Collector of SAPT on April 29.
However, shortly after clearance, the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) intervened and halted the shipment. Upon inspection, approximately 14 metric tons of donkey hides were discovered—an item strictly prohibited for export under a 2015 decision by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC).
Jurisdictional Clash Between SAPT and Enforcement Unit
The situation escalated when the Port Control Unit (PCU), operating under the Collectorate of Enforcement, took custody of the container allegedly without authorization and in violation of CGO No. 03/2018, which mandates joint examination of suspicious consignments.
SAPT officials have strongly objected, claiming this action constituted an “abuse of authority” and an overreach of jurisdiction, as the PCU did not seek prior permission. A formal written complaint has been submitted by SAPT to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), demanding disciplinary action against the Enforcement team.
SAPT’s argument rests on the fact that donkey hides are neither narcotics, explosives, nor cultural antiquities, and therefore fall outside the operational domain of the PCU, which is mandated to intercept such restricted or dangerous goods.
Enforcement Wing Defends Its Action
On the other hand, the Collectorate of Enforcement has cited Section 2(s) of the Customs Act, 1969 to justify the seizure, claiming the item qualifies as prohibited goods under the law. However, SAPT has rejected this interpretation, arguing that the consignment was declared and not duty-exempt, thus not falling under the said section.
Potential Repercussions and Institutional Concerns
Customs insiders warn that such unilateral actions and inter-departmental conflicts could seriously damage the integrity of Pakistan’s export control system, discourage legitimate exporters, and invite international scrutiny.
SAPT has reiterated its demand for the return of the seized container and the initiation of formal proceedings against the concerned PCU officials. As of now, FBR has not issued any official ruling on the matter.
The case has brought to light critical lapses in coordination between customs wings and highlighted the urgent need for clear demarcation of roles and stricter adherence to standard operating procedures.
