Govt Proposes Tough Law Targeting Smuggled Vehicles with Tampered Chassis Numbers
In a significant move to curb vehicle smuggling and illegal imports, the federal government has proposed a new law under which any vehicle found with a tampered, altered, or concealed chassis number will be treated as smuggled and confiscated by Customs authorities, regardless of whether it is registered with a motor vehicle authority.
According to officials, the proposed legislation seeks to address growing concerns about the increasing number of illegally imported vehicles and the manipulation of vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to hide their origin.
What the Law Proposes:
- Chassis Tampering = Smuggling
Vehicles with cut, welded, altered, or filled-in chassis numbers—or any material used to conceal the original number—will be classified as smuggled, even if registered. - Mandatory Forensic Checks
The law mandates forensic investigations to detect VIN tampering. If a vehicle fails the forensic test, it will be immediately seized and treated as smuggled property. - Crackdown on Illegal Trade
The aim is to eliminate the circulation of illegally imported or stolen vehicles, reinforce road safety, and promote the purchase of legally imported cars.
Public Advisory
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from buying vehicles with suspicious or tampered chassis numbers. Citizens are also encouraged to conduct forensic verification before purchasing any second-hand vehicle to ensure its compliance with the law.
“This law is a major step toward eradicating vehicle theft, curbing smuggling, and protecting consumers from unknowingly purchasing illegal cars,” a government source stated.
The move is expected to tighten the noose around vehicle smuggling rings and reinforce transparency in vehicle ownership and trade across Pakistan.
