Fake FBR And PSQCA Officials Harassing Traders in Karachi 2026. Fake government officials harassing traders has become a serious issue in Karachi.
Recent reports reveal that impersonators posing as FBR and PSQCA officers are conducting illegal raids and threatening shopkeepers, creating fear in business hubs like Jodia Bazaar.
This article explains what happened, why it matters, and how traders can protect themselves in 2026.
Fake Raids Targeting Traders in Karachi
Karachi is Pakistan’s largest commercial city.
Thousands of small and large traders operate daily in its wholesale markets.
Recently, reports surfaced about fake joint teams claiming to represent:
- Federal Board of Revenue
- Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority
- Local police units
These individuals allegedly carried out unauthorized raids and harassed shopkeepers.
Incident Reported at Jodia Bazaar
Jodia Bazaar is one of Karachi’s oldest and busiest markets.
The issue came to light when affected traders submitted a formal complaint to senior authorities.
What Exactly Happened
According to the complaint:
- 10 to 12 individuals entered a trader’s shop
- Goods were thrown on the floor
- Merchandise was damaged
- Traders were accused of selling “unregistered products”
The group demanded production certificates without showing any legal documents.
Trader’s Statement and Allegations
A trader with more than ten years of experience at Jodia Bazaar reported that the raid took place around 4:00 PM on January 31.
Key Claims by the Trader
- The individuals claimed to be FBR and PSQCA officials
- No official ID cards were shown
- No search warrant was presented
- Threats were made instead of legal explanations
Three individuals also claimed to be police officials from Mitha Dar Police Station, yet failed to provide proof.
No Legal Authority, No Written Orders
Under Pakistani law, government inspections must follow proper procedure.
Legal Requirements for Raids
| Requirement | Mandatory |
|---|---|
| Written authorization | Yes |
| Official ID | Yes |
| Search warrant | Yes |
| Prior notice (in most cases) | Yes |
None of these requirements were fulfilled during the alleged raid.
Signs of Impersonation
The trader strongly believed the individuals were impersonators, not real officers.
Red Flags Identified
- Refusal to show ID cards
- Aggressive behavior
- Use of threats instead of notices
- No official paperwork
These signs raised serious doubts about the legitimacy of the operation.
Police Response and Rivalry Allegations
After the incident, the trader approached the local police station.
According to him, police officials informed him that:
- The raid may have been planned by a business rival
- The purpose was intimidation and reputational damage
This adds another layer of concern for Karachi’s trading community.
Alleged Mastermind Named in Complaint
The complaint named Asif Majeed, allegedly operating under the name Kashif Zia, as the person behind the incident.
Serious Allegations Made
The trader claimed that the accused individual:
- Is under investigation for sales tax evasion
- Faces probes involving millions of rupees
- Is reportedly being investigated by tax offices in Lahore and Peshawar
These claims are part of the submitted written complaint.
Trader’s Legal Compliance
The complainant emphasized that he is a law-abiding businessman.
Documents Submitted
- Goods receipts
- Payment records
- Commercial transaction proofs
Copies of these documents were attached to the complaint sent to senior authorities.
Official Response from Authorities
Sources close to the FBR denied conducting any such joint operation.
Similarly, PSQCA reportedly:
- Did not authorize any raid at Jodia Bazaar
- Launched an internal inquiry to investigate misuse of its name
This further strengthens concerns about fake officials targeting traders.
Why This Issue Is Dangerous for Businesses
Illegal raids damage more than just goods.
Impact on Traders
- Financial losses
- Mental stress
- Business disruption
- Loss of trust in institutions
Small traders suffer the most because they lack legal awareness.
How Traders Can Protect Themselves in 2026
Every trader should know their rights.
Steps to Stay Safe
- Always ask for official ID cards
- Demand a written warrant
- Record names and badge numbers
- Call local authorities immediately
- Never pay fines on the spot
What Real FBR or PSQCA Officers Must Show
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Official ID | Identity verification |
| Written notice | Legal authority |
| Department stamp | Authenticity |
| Case reference number | Transparency |
If any of these are missing, the raid may be illegal.
Legal Action Demanded by Traders
The complainant urged senior officials to:
- Launch a transparent investigation
- Punish impersonators strictly
- Protect traders from harassment
- Prevent future fake raids
Strong action is necessary to restore confidence.
Growing Cases of Fake Government Officials
This is not an isolated incident.
Across Pakistan, reports have emerged of:
- Fake tax officers
- Fake utility inspectors
- Fake regulatory teams
This trend highlights the need for public awareness.
FAQs
Are FBR officers allowed to raid shops without notice?
No. Legal raids require written authorization and official identification.
How can traders verify PSQCA officials?
Ask for an official ID card, written order, and department stamp.
What should traders do during a fake raid?
Refuse cooperation politely, document details, and contact authorities.
Is impersonating government officials a crime in Pakistan?
Yes. It is a serious criminal offense with legal penalties.
Can traders file complaints against fake officers?
Yes. Written complaints can be submitted to senior authorities and police.
Conclusion
Fake FBR and PSQCA officials harassing traders in Karachi is a serious threat to business confidence. Strong investigations, awareness, and legal action are essential to protect traders and restore trust.
