The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has opened an investigation into Go Petroleum and several of its senior officials over allegations of illegally selling bonded petroleum products before clearing the required customs duties, taxes, and petroleum levies. Authorities believe the alleged violations may have caused losses worth billions of rupees to Pakistan’s national treasury.
The case has been registered by the FIA’s Corporate Crime Circle Karachi, which is now examining the company’s handling of imported fuel stored under the customs bonded system.
Missing Bonded Fuel Raises Questions
According to investigators, a routine inspection carried out on June 22 at a fuel storage facility in Mehmoodkot, Muzaffargarh, uncovered a significant shortage of bonded gasoline.
Official customs and transportation records indicated that more than 39,000 metric tonnes of imported fuel should have been present at the terminal. However, inspectors found only around 7,040 metric tonnes in storage, leaving an unexplained shortfall of approximately 32,081 metric tonnes.
The FIA alleges that the missing fuel may have been released into the local market without completing the customs clearance process or paying the applicable import duties and taxes.
Alleged Violation of Customs Rules
Petroleum products imported under the bonded warehouse system are legally required to remain under customs control until all government duties and taxes have been paid.
Investigators claim that the fuel was transported from a bonded terminal at Port Qasim to Mehmoodkot through a cross-country pipeline network and was allegedly sold before the required customs procedures were completed.
The investigation also includes allegations involving approximately 4,744 metric tonnes of bonded high-octane fuel that was reportedly sold without the necessary customs documentation. Officials say electronic records recovered during the inquiry may support these claims.
Company Officials Face Allegations
The FIR names Go Petroleum’s Chief Executive Officer along with several other company representatives.
According to the FIA, the accused are being investigated for allegedly avoiding customs duties, petroleum levy, and other taxes by unlawfully disposing of bonded petroleum products. Authorities also claim that official records may have been altered and forged documents used to conceal the alleged transactions.
The case has been registered under the Customs Act, relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code, and anti-corruption legislation.
Investigation Continues
The FIA says the investigation is still in its early stages and has expanded its scope to determine the full extent of the alleged financial irregularities.
Officials are examining customs records, digital evidence, transportation documents, and financial data to establish whether additional individuals from either the public or private sector were involved.
Although industry estimates suggest that the losses could amount to several billion rupees, investigators have not yet announced a final assessment of the financial impact.
No arrests have been made so far.
Go Petroleum Rejects Allegations
Go Petroleum has responded by stating that it continues to meet all of its statutory tax and levy obligations within the prescribed payment schedules.
In a statement, the company said its internal records show that it remains compliant with applicable tax laws and has no outstanding liabilities related to the allegations under investigation.
The company also confirmed that it is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities while declining to comment on specific details because the matter remains under official review.
Go Petroleum further stated that it remains committed to regulatory compliance, transparency, and ensuring an uninterrupted fuel supply to customers across the country.
Potential Impact on the Energy Sector
The investigation is being closely watched by industry stakeholders, as it could have broader implications for Pakistan’s petroleum sector and customs enforcement framework.
If the allegations are substantiated, the case may prompt stricter oversight of bonded fuel storage, customs procedures, and tax compliance within the oil and gas industry. At the same time, the legal process will determine whether the allegations can be supported by evidence.
For now, the FIA’s investigation remains ongoing, and no court has ruled on the claims made in the FIR.