Reports have emerged that individuals impersonating officials from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) and even police personnel have allegedly been carrying out bogus raids on traders in Karachi’s Jodia Bazaar, according to local business owners.
One trader, Sohail Qadri, said around 10–12 men stormed his shop on January 31, damaged merchandise and demanded production certificates, claiming he was selling unregistered goods. When pressed for official identification, the group allegedly resorted to threats and intimidation instead of producing credentials.
The trader also alleged that some members of the group claimed to be police from Mitha Dar Police Station and that the raid was carried out without prior notice, a warrant, or legal authority raising doubts about the legitimacy of the operation.
After lodging a complaint with local police, he was told the incident may have been orchestrated by a business rival, and he has asked the FBR chairman to order an impartial investigation and take strict action against those involved to protect the business community.
Officials from the FBR denied carrying out such joint operations, and the PSQCA has reportedly initiated an internal inquiry into the matter.