Ministry of Narcotics Control claims 'success' in 2010

Pakistan seized 4688 kg Heroin, 3,784 kg Opium, 44,600 kg Acetic Anhydride, 83,233 kg Hashish in 2010.

ISLAMABAD: Ministry of Narcotics Control has successfully achieved all the targets set for the year 2010. The efforts and initiatives taken by Ministry of Narcotics Control have been greatly appreciated by the cabinet. The international community has also expressed their resolve to continue supporting Pakistan in combating the menace of drugs.

During year 2010, Pakistan seized 4688 kg Heroin/Morphine, 3,784 kg Opium, 44,600 kg Acetic Anhydride (a precursor chemical used in Heroin labs),and 83,233 kg Hashish. In Hajj Operation 19 people were arrested from Peshawar and Islamabad who were carrying drugs.

The prosecution rate is as high as 90% and in Special Courts established by ANF, three persons were given death penalties, and 278 life imprisonments.

In compliance with the policy guidelines given by Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, a new Anti-Narcotics Policy 2010 was prepared after consultation with all relevant stakeholders which was approved by the cabinet in July 2010.

The Anti-Narcotics Policy aims to re-energize existing coordination and control mechanism and mobilize the people of Pakistan especially youth and institutions to ensure their active participation in eradicating drugs. The policy also focuses on drug supply reduction, demand reduction and promotes international cooperation for mutual support and partnership against drugs.

Ministry of Narcotics Control signed with United Nations Office on Drugs and UNODC four year Country Programme (2010-14) on June 17 2010, supporting ongoing initiatives in illicit trafficking and border management, criminal justice and drug demand reduction.

The objectives of the five year master plan includes control of production and trafficking of narcotic substances, limit smuggling, trafficking and distribution of illicit narcotics and pychotropic substances and precursor chemicals, check the increase in drug demand and achieve reduction in number of drug addicts through prevention, treatment and rehabilitation measures.