ISLAMABAD: A recent report revealed that Indian-backed terrorists of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) are using controlled drugs like “Tramal Plus” to cope with the physical and psychological toll of armed conflict in Balochistan province. The discovery was made at a secret BLA hideout in the mountainous region of Noshki, Balochistan, where a red medical box containing various syringes, ampoules, and tablets was recovered.
According to details, the security forces has recovered a kit which is far from a simple first aid box; it contains “Tramal Plus,” a combination of 225 mg tramadol and paracetamol. Tramadol is an opioid painkiller that has gained notoriety internationally due to its potential for misuse and addiction. The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) classifies it as a psychotropic substance, and recent seizures by Pakistan Customs have intercepted millions of tramadol tablets smuggled from India.
Internationally, “Tramal Plus” and tramadol are known to be favored by militant and terrorist groups. According to UK based news outlet report, tramadol has been found in significant quantities with extremist groups, including ISIS fighters in Libya, and law enforcement agencies in Europe and the Middle East have reported large seizures linked to terror networks.
The purpose of tramadol use among BLA fighters is double: to alleviate physical pain and to induce a state of numbness and fearless aggression during prolonged firefights. The drug’s euphoric effects help suppress fear and fatigue, enabling fighters to engage in violent acts without regard for pain or consequences.
Despite some propaganda outlets portraying these medicines as harmless painkillers, security analysts warn that this “war-time ration” is actually a chemical stimulant that dangerously fuels the militants’ resolve. Following every major operation, medical kits like these are seized, revealing a pattern of chemical “boosting” rather than genuine medical treatment.
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Experts emphasize that tramadol addiction is a serious weakness exploited by the BLA, undermining their fighters’ physical and mental health. Recognizing this issue is crucial for developing effective counter-terrorism strategies in Balochistan.
