As per PCG Act 1973, mandate of this Force is defined as “Whereas it is expedient to provide for the constitution and regulation of PCG and for special measures to effectively check smuggling of any kind across the frontiers of Pakistan in the Coastal Area of Arabian Sea and also to deal with persons acting in a manner prejudicial to the defence and security of Pakistan in that area”.

• Functions. Main functions of PCG under 1973 Act are:-
  • Prevention of smuggling
  • Prevention of illegal immigration to and migration from the Country.
  • Stopping enemy agents or saboteurs from infiltrating into the Country along the Coastal Areas.
  • Supplementing defence during war.
• Legal Powers. In order to accomplish the assigned tasks in a befitting manner, certain legal powers have been vested to PCG under various Acts.
  • Police Act – 1861. Under this act, all Officers and Junior Commissioned Officers are vested with Police powers; however it is only applicable outside the jurisdiction of Seaports and Airports since they have dedicated agencies for the purpose. The details are:-
    • Every post serves as a police station.
    • Every Officer and Junior Commissioned Officer possesses powers of Station House Officer (SHO) and can:-
      • Record FIR and carry out investigation.
      • Present challan in relevant courts of law.
  • Control of Narcotics Substance (CNS) Act – 1997. Under CNS Act, Officers and Junior Commissioned Officers are authorized to exercise powers to:-
    • Carryout seizure and arrest in public places.
    • Stop and search public / private transport.
    • Trace and freeze assets, when required.
  • Customs Act – 1969.  PCG has been vested with anti smuggling powers to check illegal smuggling of goods. Under this Act, PCG is authorize to check smuggling of contraband items.