ISLAMABAD – The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into an alleged fraudulent activity involving the clearance of imported mobile phones through courier services. After the shipment arrived in Karachi, the recipient paid the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) tax of Rs138,526 required for the device’s release. The inquiry further found that while the consignee’s identity remained unchanged in import records, key details such as the delivery address and contact information had allegedly been altered. The FTO has recommended that the FBR instruct the Chief Collector of Customs (Airports) to investigate the alleged involvement of FedEx, Customs officials, and private individuals. It also called for a review of courier import data from January 2025 to June 2026, an examination of suspected forged authorization letters, and legal or disciplinary action where necessary.