Investigation Launched into Karachi Airport iPhone 16 Courier Scam

In a significant development, Pakistan's Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has raised alarms over a sophisticated scam linked to the importation and clearance of the iPhone 16. The FTO has urged the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to delve into the alleged involvement of the courier service FedEx, customs officials, and private individuals in this troubling case. The issue came to light following a complaint from Muhammad Nausherwan Khan, who reported that an iPhone 16 Plus sent by his sister from Canada went missing after reaching Karachi. Despite paying the requisite Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) tax of Rs 138,526, Khan claims he never received the device, raising questions about the integrity of the customs clearance process.

The saga began when Khan's sister dispatched the iPhone 16 Plus through FedEx in December 2024. Upon its arrival in Karachi, Khan complied with all necessary regulations, including tax payments, yet the phone never made it into his hands. Investigations revealed that the device was allegedly picked up by someone else, using a forged authority letter. Customs officials defended their actions, stating that the phone was released only after a clearing agent provided the appropriate documentation, which included the original detention receipt and invoice. However, the FTO's inquiry has cast doubt on this narrative, as Khan's name remained consistent in the tracking records, while the address and contact information were reportedly altered to match another individual.