Sindh Minister Demands Apology from Customs Over Wrongfully Confiscated Vehicle

Karachi, Pakistan – Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has demanded an apology from Pakistan Customs in Karachi and the immediate release of a provincial government vehicle wrongly confiscated on March 12, 2026. Memon alleges the vehicle was seized despite the presentation of official documentation proving ownership by the Sindh Information Department.

Vehicle Confiscation and Minister’s Response

According to Minister Memon, Pakistan Customs confiscated the vehicle, a 2025 model white Hiace Hi-Roof, claiming it was a non-custom paid (NCP) vehicle. He stated that despite providing the original stamped sales certificate issued by Indus Motor Company Limited on February 12, 2026, and an invoice detailing the purchase, Customs officials maintained custody of the vehicle. Dawn and Capital News Point both reported on the incident.

The vehicle, purchased for nearly Rs14 million with applicable taxes, was sold to the Sukkur divisional director of the Sindh information department through official Indus Motor Company outlets. Memon expressed strong disapproval of the incident, labeling the actions of Customs officials as “incompetency and unacceptable behaviour” towards a provincial government department. 24 News HD also covered the story.

Memon took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice his concerns and share images of the sales certificate and invoice as evidence of the vehicle’s legitimate purchase. He is demanding a written apology from Pakistan Customs in addition to the immediate return of the vehicle.

Combating NCP Vehicles

Pakistan Customs and other law enforcement agencies routinely scrutinize and seize NCP vehicles as part of efforts to combat illegal activities such as smuggling and drug trafficking. However, this incident raises questions about the thoroughness of verification processes and the potential for errors affecting legitimate government entities.

Previous Vehicle Impoundments

In a related development in March 2025, Sindh Excise Minister Mukesh Chawla informed Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah that his department had already impounded four vehicles being used by Customs officers in Karachi. Chief Minister Shah subsequently directed Chawla to continue impounding NCP vehicles and those with tampered chassis numbers operating within the city. Dunya News reported on this prior action.

This recent incident underscores ongoing tensions between provincial departments and Customs officials regarding vehicle verification and seizure procedures.