The Federal Board of Revenue has decided to establish Digital Enforcement Stations as part of a broader effort to curb smuggling and illegal trade across the country, according to official sources.
Sources in the FBR said the new digital stations will be equipped with modern technology and given full enforcement powers to detect, monitor, and prevent smuggling and unlawful commercial activities. The initiative aims to strengthen border and inland enforcement by improving surveillance and real-time data sharing.
Officials said the FBR has sought Rs10 billion for the establishment of the Digital Enforcement Stations. Under the proposed plan, existing check posts will be upgraded and converted into fully functional digital enforcement units.
According to sources, the stations will operate under a defined set of rules and standard operating procedures, with a strong emphasis on the use of technology for tracking goods and vehicles involved in trade movements.
The FBR also plans to recruit retired officers and soldiers from the armed forces on a contract basis to fill vacant positions at the stations. These personnel will be deployed to support enforcement operations and ensure effective implementation of the anti-smuggling measures.
Sources added that the move is part of the government’s wider strategy to control revenue leakage, discourage illegal trade networks, and improve tax collection through stricter enforcement mechanisms.