Islamabad Airport’s alleged iPhone scandal deepens as 42 “destroyed” iPhone 14 Pro Max devices are reportedly found active, prompting President Asif Ali Zardari to order a fresh probe by the Federal Tax Ombudsman.
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A major controversy has erupted at Islamabad International Airport after customs authorities claimed they had “destroyed” 42 iPhone 14 Pro Max devices worth millions of rupees, while the importer alleges that most of the phones are active and operational.
According to the importer, an independent verification of the devices’ IMEI and iCloud status revealed that nearly all of the allegedly destroyed phones remain active, with some reportedly in use across different areas. The claim has raised serious questions about the handling of confiscated high-value goods.
President refers case back to Federal Tax Ombudsman
President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, has taken notice of the matter and referred the case back to the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) for re-examination. He has also directed a fresh review of the report submitted by Assistant Collector Airport Farwa Batool and another official identified as Aswa.
The move signals renewed scrutiny over the customs department’s initial findings and handling of the case.
Allegations of internal involvement
Sources allege that instead of being destroyed, the expensive smartphones were quietly retained, with senior customs officials purportedly involved. It is further claimed that a weak or incomplete report was earlier submitted to the FTO.
With a new Federal Tax Ombudsman, reportedly Mr. Hijazi, now in office, observers say the case could become a “test case” for accountability within customs operations at Islamabad airport.
Officials familiar with airport operations claim that it is widely known within certain circles which officer allegedly handled the phones, though no formal charges have yet been publicly confirmed.
Questions over transparency
The controversy comes amid criticism of the customs media wing. The charge of Director General of the Customs Media Directorate has reportedly been given to an officer named Hassan Saqib. Critics claim responses to media inquiries have been limited, adding to concerns about transparency.
Customs authorities have not yet issued a detailed public clarification addressing the importer’s claims about the active iCloud status of the devices.
If proven, the case could have significant implications for internal oversight mechanisms within Pakistan’s customs administration, especially concerning the disposal of seized goods.
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