QUETTA: Balochistan has witnessed a dramatic drop in the smuggling of Iranian oil following a decisive crackdown by security forces and local authorities.
The daily illegal inflow of fuel, which once stood at a staggering 16 million litres, has now plummeted to just 2 million litres, marking a major success in the province’s anti-smuggling drive.
The game-changing development came after the Abdoi border was sealed and a critical agreement was reached between Deputy Commissioner Kech and Iranian authorities to stem cross-border fuel trafficking. The enhanced coordination has led to significantly improved border surveillance and enforcement.
In a concerted effort, the Frontier Corps (FC), Pakistan Coast Guards (PCG), and the Pakistan Army launched joint operations targeting the powerful oil smuggling networks operating in Balochistan. Their coordinated strategy led to the regulation of 74 smuggling vehicles, previously used to transport massive quantities of untaxed Iranian diesel and petrol into Pakistan.
Officials say the creation of a buffer zone and the deployment of strict monitoring systems along the border have disrupted long-standing smuggling routes, delivering a heavy blow to the so-called oil mafia that had long operated with impunity.
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According to security sources, the days of fuel smugglers appear to be numbered, as enforcement continues and regulatory frameworks are strengthened. Authorities have hailed the effort as a historic achievement, not only in curbing illegal trade but also in protecting Pakistan’s economy and ensuring fair competition for the legal fuel industry.
