Anti-narcotics drive: 2,883 arrested, 234MT drugs seized in 2024-2025

ISLAMABAD: The interior ministry on Wednesday revealed staggering figures of Pakistan’s anti-narcotics operations in a written reply submitted to the National Assembly, reporting the seizure of 234.395 metric tons of drugs and arrest of 2,883 suspects in 2,831 operations conducted by the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) during 2024-25.

The comprehensive document detailed the disposal of 655 drug-related cases, including 316 convictions and 106 acquittals, while 233 cases were closed with final orders. Authorities particularly highlighted the emerging trend of drug smuggling through courier services, with 344 such cases registered – including 174 attempts to smuggle narcotics abroad and 70 incoming shipments.

Law enforcement agencies uncovered secret drug manufacturing labs in Quetta, Peshawar and Lahore with daily production capacity of 5,000-15,000 narcotic pills. In a significant operation in Peshawar, an Afghan national was arrested while a synthetic drug lab operating in a residential flat was completely dismantled.

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The seized narcotics included 1,393.498 kg of various drugs captured in nationwide operations along with large quantities of opium, heroin, cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine and synthetic pills. Manufacturing equipment and precursor chemicals were also confiscated. As part of preventive measures, 62 enforcement teams conducted visits near 237 universities across the country while 400 drug peddlers were arrested in 349 targeted operations.

The report came amid growing concerns about increasing drug abuse among youth and innovative smuggling methods, particularly through postal and courier services.