Pakistan Customs has thwarted an attempt to smuggle foreign currency at Jinnah International Airport, seizing currencies worth 11.8 million Pakistani rupees from a female passenger travelling to Dubai on Emirates flight EK 601. Officials said the passenger had submitted false information and a misleading declaration about the cash, prompting a luggage search that uncovered multiple foreign currencies.
Airport check exposes cash haul
According to customs officials, the passenger was stopped on suspicion before her baggage was searched. The inspection led to the recovery of several currencies, including US dollars, euros, British pounds and UAE dirhams. The authorities said the seizure was made after the declaration was found to be false.
Foreign currencies recovered
The seized amount was reported as 42,728 US dollars worth of foreign currency in total. Officials listed the recovered cash as 33,600 US dollars, 300 euros, 2,570 British pounds and 19,815 UAE dirhams.
| Currency | Recovered amount |
|---|---|
| US dollars | 33,600 |
| Euros | 300 |
| British pounds | 2,570 |
| UAE dirhams | 19,815 |
| Total value in Pakistani rupees | 11.8 million |
Legal action underway
Customs said the currency has been confiscated under the Customs Act of 1969 on the basis of the alleged false declaration. A case has also been registered against the passenger for further legal action.
Enforcement tightens at departure gates
The seizure highlights the scrutiny faced by passengers carrying foreign currency through Karachi airport, particularly on international departures. With the case now registered, authorities will proceed under the law as they examine the circumstances of the attempted transfer.
