ASF Thwarts Rs17 Million Currency Smuggling Attempt at Karachi Airport

In a significant security operation, Airport Security Forces (ASF) intercepted an attempt to smuggle a substantial amount of foreign currency at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. Mohammad Ahmed Ilyas, a passenger heading to Dubai, was found carrying a staggering Rs17 million worth of foreign currency, including 225,000 UAE dirhams and Saudi riyals, hidden in his luggage. Express News reported that the currency was flagged during routine security checks. Upon discovering the cash, ASF seized the funds and handed the suspect over to Customs for further investigation.

This marks a recent series of heightened vigilance at Pakistan’s airports, as just last week, a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) senior flight steward, Faisal Majeed Pehnwar, faced suspension for attempting to smuggle mobile phones from Canada. Customs officials caught him with 16 mobile phones concealed on his person, prompting PIA to take immediate disciplinary action. The General Manager of PIA Flight Services issued a show-cause notice, and Pehnwar has been instructed to submit a written response within three days.

PIA reiterated its firm stance against any misuse of company privileges, emphasizing that smuggling or related misconduct would lead to strict consequences. These incidents underscore the importance of vigilant airport security measures to prevent illegal activities and uphold the integrity of Pakistan’s transportation services.