Vigilance wing at customs Intelligence on cards

17 Jan, 2005

In order to cope the increasing threat of terrorism, overcome illegal trade activity at border and checking smuggling, the government has been contemplating to set up a specialised Vigilance Wing at Customs Intelligence and Investigation.
Director General, Customs Intelligence and Investigation, Major General Syed Usman Shah (Retd) stated this while talking to PPI here on Sunday.
He said that they have proposed the government to set up a specialised body ie Vigilance Wing at Customs Intelligence, with appointing qualified professionals having MBA degree and trained/skilled with modern lines.
"Until and unless a body of neutral personnel and qualified people is there to cope the situation, no tangible/visible change could be expected regarding controlling smuggling, terrorism threat and illegal trade. The staff of Customs origin wont deliver properly as they would always favour their colleagues, therefore, a neutral body was imperative," he said.
About the ongoing changes, General Usman said that currently they were working on the enforcement based on modern lines. He said that the Customs Intelligence and Investigation had got the powers of auction but still they were lacking any authority regarding appraiser of the vehicles or other goods.
The DG Intelligence and Investigation while underling the need of taking more effective measures to curb the menace of smuggling has sought the appeal capability to his department for smooth working.

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