FIA and Customs Launch Joint Probe Into Disappearance of 400kg Silver Consignment
Pakistan’s law enforcement and revenue agencies are investigating a high-profile case involving the alleged disappearance and tampering of a large quantity of seized silver during official transit.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and Pakistan Customs have agreed to form a joint investigation committee after serious discrepancies were discovered in a consignment originally seized in Quetta and destined for Lahore.
According to officials from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Customs Enforcement had confiscated 698 kilograms of silver bars in Quetta as part of an enforcement action. The consignment was later transferred under official custody and dispatched to the Pakistan Mint for verification and processing.
However, upon arrival at the destination, authorities reportedly discovered a major discrepancy. Around 400 kilograms of the silver were allegedly replaced with lead during transit, raising serious concerns about internal handling procedures and possible criminal involvement.
The case has prompted Pakistan Customs to formally request the Federal Investigation Agency to intervene and conduct a detailed inquiry alongside customs officials. The joint committee is expected to examine the entire chain of custody, from seizure to transportation and final delivery.
Officials say the investigation will focus on identifying where the tampering occurred and who may have been responsible for the alleged substitution. The involvement of both agencies indicates the seriousness of the breach, particularly given the high-value nature of the seized material.
The incident has also raised broader questions about the security protocols governing the movement of confiscated goods. Ensuring transparency and accountability in such cases is considered essential to maintaining trust in enforcement institutions.
The formation of a joint committee between Customs and the Federal Investigation Agency reflects an effort to address potential gaps in oversight and strengthen procedural safeguards for future operations.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to review documentation, transport records, and personnel involved in the shipment process to determine how such a significant discrepancy could have occurred.
