Customs officials in Karachi intercepted a Quetta-bound passenger bus and uncovered smuggled smartphones worth Rs17.2 million, bringing the total value of seized goods, including the vehicle, to Rs27.2 million.
The bus (registration number BVA-355) was stopped at the Moachko checkpoint on the RCD Highway after intelligence flagged it as suspicious. Although the vehicle was marked for passenger transport, it was empty. According to the driver, a technical issue had required passengers to transfer to another bus. However, customs officials opted for a thorough inspection.
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During their search, they discovered concealed compartments cleverly hidden within the floor, roof, and side panels of the bus. These secret spaces were used to stash 351 high-end smartphones, estimated at Rs17.2 million. The empty bus itself was valued at Rs10 million. Both the devices and the vehicle were immediately confiscated.
An investigation is ongoing to trace the individuals responsible for the smuggling operation, according to customs authorities.
