2023 Pakistan crackdown

The government's crackdown against power theft, hoarding, and smuggling remains in full swing across the country. In the ongoing nationwide effort to combat power theft, authorities have successfully recovered over Rs950 million rupees with nearly 500 individuals arrested involved in electricity theft.[5] The Senate Standing Committee on Power has commended the Power Division for its prompt and effective actions in addressing line losses and electricity theft across various DISCOs (Distribution Companies).[6]

The caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, has reiterated the government's determination to take strong and decisive measures against individuals and entities engaged in smuggling and illicit trade.[7] As part of the ongoing campaign against illegal foreign currency exchange operations, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) conducted raids on illicit money exchange dealers in Rawalpindi, resulting in the arrest of four individuals engaged in illegal currency exchange businesses.[8]

The government has significantly ramped up its efforts to combat sugar smuggling. Pakistan Customs, during the past two weeks, conducted an intensified anti-smuggling campaign across the country, resulting in the seizure of essential commodities valued at 2.25 billion rupees. The seized items encompassed a wide range of essential goods, including sugar, urea, petroleum, currency, tires, black tea, vehicles, iron, steel, and various other commodities.[9]