The Customs Department in Lahore has been shaken by serious allegations against a group of lower-grade staff reportedly involved in a pattern of illegal activity, including blackmail, impersonation, extortion, and even drug dealing. At the center of these allegations is Inspector Arif Mayo, who is alleged to be the ringleader of a network operating outside the law while working under the banner of the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation Customs, Lahore.
A confidential but reportedly credible tip-off initiated the inquiry, which uncovered that this group has been falsely presenting themselves as Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) personnel. They have allegedly been targeting key commercial zones like Shah Alam Market and transport hubs like railway stations, as well as setting up unauthorized checkpoints where they stop rickshaws and harass or extort shopkeepers under the guise of official customs duties.
This group of alleged perpetrators includes both government employees and private individuals. Besides Inspector Arif Mayo, the names of several other staff members have surfaced, including sanitation workers and former sepoys, some of whom are retired or working privately. Despite their low rank, the influence and freedom with which this group reportedly operates raises serious questions about internal oversight within the Customs structure.
Reports even claim that drugs and liquor have been smuggled into the Custom House itself. An earlier attempt to curb their actions through physical punishment under a senior officer had limited success. But now, emboldened and reportedly receiving backing from certain ASO personnel, their operations have expanded, with little to no effective restraint being observed.
This situation becomes more alarming in light of Inspector Arif Mayo’s personal track record. He has been transferred multiple times due to complaints of misconduct and is said to be widely known within Lahore’s Customs circles for his unethical conduct. Despite this, efforts to take strict disciplinary action have remained toothless, mainly due to the lack of concrete evidence. A warning letter has been issued recently, but no formal proceedings have begun.
The Directorate under Director Muneeza Majeed has acknowledged its limited capacity to fully investigate the scope of the allegations and has formally requested the Federal Board of Revenue to take prompt administrative action. Specifically, the request suggests transferring Inspector Mayo to FBR Headquarters in Islamabad or relocating him to another Directorate within Lahore to prevent further misconduct.
Copies of the report have also been circulated to multiple high-ranking customs and enforcement officials, including the Director General of Customs Valuation and Collector of Enforcement, Lahore. They have been urged to monitor the activities of the implicated staff and to take preventive measures, particularly in coordination with ASO squads.
The situation presents a grave concern not only for the integrity of the Customs Department but also for public trust in law enforcement institutions. Without swift and decisive action, these unchecked activities pose a serious threat to lawful commerce, security, and governance.
