Tax fraud alert: Raid on restaurants and wedding halls in Punjab, records seized
File photo
File photo
LAHORE (Web Desk): Punjab Revenue Authority has seized sales records of several restaurants, cafes, and wedding halls in a major crackdown on tax evasion across multiple cities.

The Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has intensified its campaign against tax fraud. Inspections were carried out in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Bahawalpur, Vehari, and other cities, where multiple businesses were found violating tax laws.

During the inspections, PRA teams discovered serious irregularities in the records of several establishments. In many cases, businesses were found collecting sales tax from customers but failing to deposit it into the government treasury.

A PRA spokesperson said that where discrepancies were found, officers immediately seized records and suspended system connectivity of those operating outside the official e-IMS system. The spokesperson warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone submitting fake data or hiding sales information.

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He further explained that collecting tax from customers but not depositing it to the government is a serious violation under PRA laws and can lead to severe penalties. Heavy fines have already been imposed on violators, and more actions are expected soon.

The PRA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and ensuring that all registered businesses fully comply with the e-IMS digital tax monitoring system.

The raids mark a tough new stance by Punjab’s tax authority. By targeting restaurants and event businesses, the PRA aims to close revenue leaks and strengthen digital monitoring. Experts believe this move could reshape how businesses handle tax compliance in the province.