KP Government Sets August Deadline for Profiling of Non-Custom Paid Vehicles in Malakand and Former Tribal Areas

PESHAWAR:The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has set August 1 as the final deadline for the profiling and local registration of non-custom paid (NCP) vehicles operating in Malakand Division and the merged tribal districts.

According to the Excise and Taxation Department, a large number of NCP vehicles in these areas remain unregistered with the authorities, including the police. The profiling initiative originally began under the caretaker government, following a decision by the Provincial Apex Committee aimed at preventing the use of such vehicles in terrorist activities.

An official from the department stated that over 200,000 NCP vehicles have already been profiled, but many still remain undocumented. The profiling process includes recording essential information such as vehicle model, engine number, color, and the owner’s details, which is then linked to the excise department’s database.

“Once the profiling is done, it becomes easier to identify who owns the vehicle, how long it has been in use, and who is responsible if it’s involved in any unlawful activity,” the official explained. He emphasized that the profiling service is completely free of charge.

### Security and Legal Concerns

Reports from security agencies have revealed that NCP vehicles have been used in acts of terrorism. Due to the lack of proper documentation and registration, tracking the perpetrators has been extremely challenging. The Apex Committee’s decision aims to bring all such vehicles under a legal and traceable framework.

### Challenges to Implementation

While private vehicle owners have generally welcomed the initiative and are voluntarily registering their vehicles, resistance is being observed from those involved in the illegal trade of NCP vehicles. These individuals reportedly fear that once all vehicles are profiled, it will disrupt their smuggling routes from Afghanistan and severely impact their businesses.

Another group opposing the initiative includes individuals with “cut-and-weld” vehicles — cars assembled illegally from spare parts — who worry about the legal implications of being traced.

### What Happens After August 1?

According to Excise Department officials, the government is moving toward the final enforcement phase. If vehicle owners fail to comply by the August 1 deadline, action will be taken. Although the possibility of extending the deadline hasn’t been ruled out, non-compliant vehicle owners may face penalties, including vehicle confiscation.

Officials reiterated that the ultimate goal is to bring all NCP vehicles within the legal framework to enhance security and law enforcement effectiveness.

The KP government’s firm stance signals a major policy shift in dealing with the longstanding issue of undocumented vehicles, with implications not only for law and order but also for regional trade and mobility.