The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has officially abolished the Customs Intelligence department, citing poor performance and allegations of involvement in smuggling activities.

This decision comes as part of a restructuring effort aimed at reforming the Customs Intelligence and Investigation division, which will now focus solely on monitoring activities.

Following the directive from the Prime Minister, the FBR has issued a notification that revokes the authority of Customs Intelligence officers to stop or release consignments, as well as to conduct raids or sting operations.

All ongoing cases and records are to be transferred to the Director General of Enforcement by November 12.

As part of this transition, Customs Intelligence offices in Rawalpindi, Multan, Hyderabad, and Gwadar have already been closed, with plans to shut down remaining offices across the country within the next 10 to 15 days.

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The powers and responsibilities of the Customs Intelligence department will now be managed by the Director General of Enforcement, along with the transfer of warehouses and staff.

This overhaul follows the recent dismissal of 27 high-ranking officials from the FBR as part of ongoing reforms.