THE widespread use of non-customs-duty-paid (NCP) vehicles in Turbat and other parts of Pakistan is not only an economic issue; it is causing serious security problems. These vehicles are smuggled through the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Such vehicles are often brought using this land route from a handful of countries without documentation or legal processing, including the payment of customs duty.

As a result, individuals are able to purchase luxury vehicles at the same or even lesser price they would pay to buy local vehicles.

Furthermore, it is alarming that many of these vehicles are later registered using political influence and illegal means. Because there is no official customs record, these vehicles operate freely on the roads without fear of being stopped by law-enforcement agencies.

It is common knowledge that areas like Chaman in Balochistan have become hubs for such illegal activities, where vehicles are purchased cheaply, and sold in markets at much higher prices, generating enor-mous profits for a few individuals. This situation creates injustice for honest and law-abiding citizens who pay heavy duties and taxes to have their vehicles legally registered.

The authorities concerned, especially Pakistan Customs and other law-enforce-ment agencies, should take strict action against this illegal practice. Proper monitoring, strict border control, and fully transparent vehicle registration systems are needed to ensure fairness.

Faizan Pervez
Turbat

Published in Dawn, April 29th, 2026