In a recent incident of smuggling, a passenger was caught attempting to smuggle over two dozen iPhone 16 Pro Max units at Islamabad Airport. Customs authorities confiscated the devices from the individual, who was arriving from the UAE. The smuggling attempt of the newly launched iPhone 16 Pro Max highlights the growing illegal trade of imported phones, particularly in markets where high duties make such devices expensive. The authorities have taken strict action by filing a First Information Report (FIR) against the smuggler.
Smuggling iPhone 16 Pro Max at Islamabad Airport
According to airport sources, the smuggler, a resident of Quetta, attempted to bypass customs regulations by smuggling 30 iPhone units into Pakistan. Reports suggest the individual may have had connections within the customs department, allowing him to proceed unnoticed. However, vigilant staff at Islamabad Airport detected the scheme and seized the phones this is not the first case of smuggling iPhone 16 at Islamabad Airport, as similar incidents have been reported in recent weeks. The seized iPhones, worth millions of rupees, were being brought into Pakistan without paying the necessary import duties.
Strict Action by Authorities
The Customs authorities registered an FIR against the passenger involved in the smuggling attempt. However, it remains unclear whether any action will be taken against the customs officials allegedly involved in the clearing of these goods. The smuggling of high-end devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max poses a significant challenge to Pakistan’s economy as it undermines legal imports and evades tax collection. The case highlights the need for stricter monitoring at entry points and greater transparency in customs operations.
Read more: Apple Debuts iPhone 16
