The Government of Pakistan has taken decisive disciplinary action against Syed Momin Hussain Shah, Inspector Customs (BS-16) at the Collectorate of Customs Enforcement, Hyderabad, following the culmination of a thorough investigation and inquiry. His dismissal from service comes after a series of events beginning with his arrest by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in connection with two FIRs, which uncovered a cache of illegal and unregistered assets at his residence. These included a total of 68 licensed and unlicensed weapons, hunting trophies, jewelry, and four vehicles—two of which were non-customs paid—collectively valued at approximately Rs. 150 million.
The scale of these findings led to Syed Momin Hussain Shah’s immediate suspension in September 2023 and the initiation of disciplinary proceedings under the Civil Servants (Efficiency & Discipline) Rules, 2020. The inquiry was overseen by Ms. Mona Mehfooz (PCS/BS-20), who conducted a comprehensive investigation and found the charges of misconduct, corruption, and subversive activities against the accused to be proven. In her report, she noted that the accused had accumulated assets beyond known sources of income and was engaged in smuggling and corrupt practices. His failure to present any plausible defense or satisfactory explanation in response to the charges underscored the severity of the violations and the necessity of stringent disciplinary action.
Despite being given an opportunity to present his side during a video-link hearing before the FBR’s Member (Admn/HR), the accused official denied all allegations, labeling them as part of a personal vendetta orchestrated by FIA authorities. He further argued that he had been acquitted by the court in relation to one of the FIRs.
However, this acquittal was only partial and conditional, pertaining solely to a limited section of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947. It did not cover other serious charges under the Customs Act, 1969, nor did it extend to the wildlife-related FIR or the second FIA-registered FIR. Consequently, while the criminal proceedings continue in the courts, the departmental inquiry’s findings stand independently, establishing a pattern of gross misconduct and corruption.
Recognizing the gravity of the proven charges, the Member (Admn/HR), FBR has imposed the major penalty of dismissal from service upon Syed Momin Hussain Shah with immediate effect, treating the period of his suspension as leave under the Revised Leave Rules, 1980. This disciplinary action aims to reinforce accountability and uphold the integrity of public service by addressing serious breaches of conduct and trust.
Syed Momin Hussain Shah has been informed of his right to appeal this decision within thirty days in accordance with the Civil Servants (Appeals) Rules, 1977. The decision underscores the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and its commitment to maintaining discipline and transparency within its ranks.
