FBR has received approval under the Finance Bill 2025 to hire retired junior commissioned officers and soldiers from the Pakistan Army. These appointments will be made on a contract basis and will support customs enforcement efforts across the country.
The main goal of this decision is to improve the fight against smuggling. For this purpose, Digital Enforcement Stations will be set up at different locations. Some will be new, while others will be upgrades of existing customs check-posts. These stations will be equipped with modern technology to monitor and stop illegal trade more effectively.
By using digital tools, these enforcement stations will help FBR track goods more accurately and identify suspicious activities in real-time. This step aims to create a stronger, more transparent system to reduce smuggling and protect the legal economy.
FBR will soon release detailed rules that will explain how these units will function. The regulations will cover areas like staffing, operational procedures, and the use of digital systems. These measures will ensure the smooth and effective operation of the new enforcement system.
Hiring experienced ex-military personnel brings additional discipline and field expertise, which is expected to make the enforcement efforts more successful. The plan reflects a larger strategy by the government to modernize customs operations and increase security at key points of entry and exit.
This initiative shows Pakistan’s commitment to using both technology and skilled manpower to improve border control and reduce financial losses caused by smuggling.
