ISLAMABAD:The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has conducted multiple operations across different regions, including Balochistan, and successfully seized a large quantity of drugs while apprehending several suspects involved in drug trafficking.
The operations were carried out in Quetta, Qila Saifullah, Pishin, and Lahore.
According to a private news channel report, a total of 318.4 kilograms of narcotics were recovered, with an estimated market value of over Rs 306.8 million.
An ANF spokesperson confirmed that three suspects were arrested in three separate raids, which led to the recovery of drugs valued at more than Rs 306.8 million.
In Lahore, 400 grams of crystal meth (“ice”) were discovered hidden in a parcel intended to be sent to Saudi Arabia via a courier office. Near Kanuzi Bazaar in Pishin, 30 kilograms of hashish were seized from a vehicle, leading to the arrest of three suspects.
Additionally, in Yakramadi area of Qila Saifullah, ANF recovered 141 kilograms of morphine and 147 kilograms of heroin that had been hidden for smuggling purposes.
Authorities have registered cases against the arrested suspects under the Anti-Narcotics Act, and investigations are currently underway.
Over the past decade, Balochistan has been a focal point in Pakistan’s efforts to combat drug trafficking.
The province’s strategic location, bordering Afghanistan and Iran, has made it a critical area for narcotics interdiction. Here are some notable drug seizures in Balochistan during this period:
2015: The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) seized 1.49 tonnes of heroin from Killi Dagar, Tehsil Barshore, District Pishin. The heroin was concealed in plastic sacks hidden in a deserted mountainous area.
2020: The Frontier Corps confiscated 300 kg of opium along with arms and ammunition in Mashkhel Sub-Tehsil, Washuk District, near the Iran border. The opium was being smuggled to Iran.
2021: In February, the Pakistan Navy and ANF recovered 700 kg of hashish from a vehicle in Pishukan.
2023: ANF Balochistan conducted 22 operations in January, recovering 4,463.4 kg of hashish, 370 kg of opium, 500 grams of heroin, and 168.70 kg of methamphetamine, among other substances. The estimated value of the seized narcotics was Rs880 million locally and $107 million internationally.
2024: In October, ANF conducted 272 operations across Balochistan, leading to the recovery of 51 tons of narcotics and the arrest of 152 individuals.
The seized substances included 4.4 tons of opium, 2.3 tons of methamphetamine, 1.5 tons of heroin, and 17.3 tons of cannabis.
2024: In November, the Pakistan Coast Guards seized 1,292 kg of high-quality hashish valued at approximately $21.6 million in Gwadar district.
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These operations underscore the persistent efforts of Pakistani authorities to curb drug trafficking in Balochistan. The province’s challenging terrain and proximity to major drug-producing regions necessitate continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
