In a significant move to combat smuggling and hoarding, Pakistan's Caretaker Interior Minister, Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti unveiled a novel approach offering cash rewards to citizens who help authorities identify those involved in illicit activities.
Talking to the presser, Mr Bugti emphasised the firm stance against smuggling and hoarding, asserting that there would be "zero tolerance" for such activities.
He revealed that 59 individuals involved in the illegal business of hawala hundi have already been apprehended.
Highlighting the irony of the situation, Minister Bugti noted that individuals previously engaged in smuggling had now turned to hoarding various goods. However, he made it unequivocally clear that no one would escape the long arm of the law, as the state machinery remained resolute in its efforts to curb smuggling and hoarding.
Citizen participation rewarded
The innovative aspect of this initiative is the offer of prize money to individuals who aid the government in identifying smuggling networks and hoarders. This incentive aims to harness the collective power of the public in the fight against these illicit activities.
Minister Bugti also revealed plans to take action against illegal immigrants in the country, with cash rewards expected to be announced for assistance in this regard soon.
"All state institutions and provincial authorities are committed to going to any extent to eradicate the menaces of smuggling and hoarding from the face of the motherland," added the Interior Minister.
Ongoing crackdown
The government's campaign against smuggling encompasses various commodities, including wheat, sugar, urea, and dollars. Minister Bugti reported that the authorities had successfully recovered substantial quantities of sugar and urea in different parts of the country.
Moreover, he used the occasion to call on the Afghan government to adhere to the Doha Agreement, which guarantees that Afghan soil will not be used against any country. This diplomatic gesture underlines Pakistan's commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
As Pakistan takes bold steps to combat smuggling and hoarding, the promise of cash rewards for vigilant citizens serves as a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against these illegal activities. With a resolute government and the support of the public, Pakistan is determined to cleanse its motherland of these pernicious practices.
