Pak: PIA flight attendant and two passengers apprehended for smuggling iPhones.
Karachi [Pakistan], October 5: Customs officials at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, Pakistan, have confiscated mobile phones valued in the millions of Pakistani Rupees from a PIA air hostess and two passengers, according to ARY News.
On Friday, customs officials disclosed that PIA air hostess Nadia Batool attempted to smuggle 30 iPhones, worth over PKR 11.2 million, concealed on her person and among her belongings.
Additionally, passengers Muhammad Arshad and his wife, Fariha Amin, were discovered with mobile phones valued at PKR 5.5 million hidden in their luggage.
The three individuals were apprehended, and a case has been filed against them. Following the operation involving the air hostess on flight PK-204 from Dubai to Lahore, the airline promptly suspended the crew members involved.
A PIA representative stated that any employee found to be violating the law would face strict disciplinary action. The airline reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on illegal activities and confirmed that severe measures would be taken against the implicated employees.
Earlier on Thursday, as the Pakistani government progressed with plans to privatise Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), potential buyers outlined new conditions, particularly regarding the airline's workforce, as reported by ARY News.
During a Senate Privatisation Committee meeting led by Senator Talal Chaudhry, it was disclosed that companies interested in acquiring PIA have requested significant changes.
One major demand is the immediate termination of all employees, alongside the acquisition of 76% of PIA's shares, with the government being held accountable for clearing outstanding tax debts.
The bidders have also sought an extension to the due diligence deadline, indicating potential delays in the privatisation process.
The Privatisation Commission has attempted to negotiate terms that would safeguard employees from layoffs for at least two to three years. However, the bidders reportedly rejected such commitments, showing no inclination to retain staff or assume pension liabilities.