2023 Pakistan black market crackdown

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In early September 2023, the Pakistani government under administration of the Pakistan Armed Forces initiated a crackdown targeting both individuals and organizations engaged in various forms of smuggling, with a particular focus on essential commodities such as wheat, sugar, urea, oil, dollars as well as power theft, hoarding, and illegal currency exchange.^[3][4] The crackdown was announced by Asim Munir.^[5]

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.^[6] 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).^[7]

As part of the crackdown 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 in September 2023 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]

The crackdown had a substantial impact on curbing illicit activities throughout the country. It not only resulted in the recovery of substantial sums of money but also led to the apprehension of numerous individuals engaged in these unlawful practices.^[10][11]

• Deportation of undocumented Afghans from Pakistan