The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) found a big scam involving Customs officers, Motor Registration Authorities (MRAs), and car dealers. This group used fake documents to register over 100 smuggled cars.
In August 2021, FBR introduced the “Auction Module” in its WeBOC system to prevent the misuse of auctioned vehicle papers. This system enables MRAs to check vehicle details online, thereby reducing fake registrations. But in July 2025, reports showed the system was being used incorrectly.
An FBR check found that 103 out of 1,909 vehicles entered in the Auction Module had fake user IDs. Of these, 43 cars were registered by MRAs, which made them legally false. On July 9, 2025, FBR suspended a Deputy Collector and an Assistant Collector whose IDs were abused.
FBR Abolishes Customs Intelligence Due to Inefficiency and Smuggling
The investigation found a larger criminal group, including MRA workers and car dealers. FBR asked for a Joint Investigation Committee (JIT) with top officers from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Customs, and intelligence agencies. The JIT started work after FBR sent its complaint on July 10, 2025.
By August 28, 2025, the FIA filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the suspects. By September 3, 2025, these people were arrested. Customs Enforcement has filed seven FIRs and caught 13 people involved in this scam so far.
This case highlights weaknesses in Pakistan’s vehicle registration system. It also shows the need for stronger checks. The work done by FBR and FIA aims to rebuild trust and prevent illegal acts.
