Staff Reporter
MANSEHRA:The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has claimed a major breakthrough after raiding an alleged illegal cigarette manufacturing facility in Malkpur, Mansehra, and seizing machinery, raw materials, and a large stock of counterfeit cigarettes worth millions of rupees.According to FBR officials, the raid was carried out at the Hujra of Amjad Salar Khan, where the unregistered cigarette unit was reportedly operating. The operation took place on the directives of Additional Commissioner Syed Zubair Shah and Assistant Commissioner Umar Khalid, while Inspector Usman, Inspector Ali Asif, Superintendent Luqman and Fahad Shehzad led a day-long search operation with police personnel.
Officials confirmed that legal proceedings have commenced under the Federal Excise Act 2005, which declares cigarette production in any unregistered facility illegal. Authorities announced that all seized machinery will be confiscated and destroyed, while those involved will face strict legal action.
Amjad Salar, in his initial statement, claimed he had rented out the premises and was unaware of the activities being conducted there. FBR officials have begun verifying his statement as part of the investigation.Inspector Usman said the operation highlights FBR’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal cigarette production and enforce excise laws across the region.
