Customs seizes Rs96m in smuggled phones from tampered Prado

December 08, 2025 (MLN): Customs Enforcement Karachi intercepted a tampered Toyota Land Cruiser Prado carrying 564 high end smuggled mobile phones near the Karachi Hyderabad Toll Plaza to seize items valued at a combined Rs96million, according to the press release.

The vehicle was intercepted after the occupants failed to produce any lawful import documents. Initial inspection revealed suspicious welding marks around the bonnet, front bumper, and side fender areas.

These irregularities prompted a deeper search, during which Customs Officers discovered concealed packets suspected to contain mobile phones.

The Prado was shifted to the Custom House Karachi for a detailed examination. Officers found five specially created hidden compartments containing 564 assorted mobile phones including Google Pixel and Motorola models worth Rs64m.

A subsequent forensic report confirmed that the Prado itself, valued at approximately Rs32m, had been tampered and was non-duty-paid.

Both the vehicle and the mobile phones have been seized. An FIR has been lodged, and investigations are underway to track the network involved in the smuggling attempt.

This operation highlights the growing use of modified vehicles in smuggling high-value electronics and underscores ongoing enforcement efforts to curb illegal imports in Pakistan.

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