MIRPUR (Kashmir English): In a major crackdown, the Inland Revenue Department (South Zone) seized illegal cigarettes worth lakhs during late-night raids in Mirpur district.
The operation was carried out on the special instructions of Commissioner Inland Revenue (South Zone) Syed Ansar Ali.
According to the department’s spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Inland Revenue Syed Ali Asghar, Superintendent Excise Sajid Manzoor, Inspector Inland Revenue Khalid Shaheen, and other field staff conducted raids in residential areas of Mirpur on the night between September 21 and 22.
The team recovered and seized cartons of illegal cigarettes from stores and godowns located in residential areas of Mirpur.
During the operation, 194 cartons of cigarettes of the brands Kisan and Gold Cup were recovered from a loader vehicle while being unloaded at a house in Sector C-4. The cartons and vehicle were seized.
Following further intelligence, the team also raided a shop in Sector F-2 and recovered 69 cartons of cigarettes of various brands.
The stockpiles were found without payment of federal excise duty, and the premises were sealed after necessary legal action, the spokesperson said.
Officials noted that the seized cigarette packs lacked mandatory details such as the manufacturer’s name, retail price, and sales tax information.
Since some seized brands matched those of a local cigarette factory, the Inland Revenue team also visited the factory for verification. The management claimed the goods were counterfeit and that their brand names were being misused. Samples have been sent for forensic examination, and detailed reports are expected.
Commissioner Inland Revenue Syed Ansar Ali said the department has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against illegal cigarette manufacturing, transportation, and storage.
“Protecting the national treasury is our top priority, and no negligence will be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against those involved in such unlawful activities,” he stated.
