KARACHI: President of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Mufassir Atta Malik, has said that it is true that majority of importers are facing difficulties in clearance of their consignments due to unnecessary hurdles created by Principle appraiser Appraisement East Collectorate Dost Muhammad and his team.
Talking to Customs Today Malik said, “We know a number of his activities are illegal. We will call a meeting of all importers and we are going to take decision about this issue.”
Answering to a question, he said: “We are going to make a complaint to customs higher authorities about this corrupt appraiser.” He further said due to such corrupt officials a question has been marked on the reputation of customs department.
Malik said that these types of officials are defaming not only the department but also the country too. Higher officials should eradicate corruption with iron hands and make the country corruption-free, he said, adding that it is vital for a strong economy and prosperity of the country.
He said unnecessary delays of consignment are being made by corrupt appraisers which cause huge loss to traders. Importers have been demanding for the last several days to take strong action against Dost Mohammad. An inquiry committee should be set up on this issue who would look into this matter, he added.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of M/s Muneeb Bella Garments who is also office-bearer of Karachi Chamber and Commerce & Industry said that it is not a new issue, Appraisement East Principal Appraiser Dost Muhammad often creates unnecessary hurdles for importers using different methods. He said that he stops consignments without any reason, due to which backlog of consignments is witnessed at PICT because importers are demanded to produce different documents again and again.
It’s necessary to mention here that legal importers of Karachi are upset due to non-professional behavior of Principal Appraiser Dost Muhammad who is currently performing his duties at R&D section, Customs Appraisement East.