ANF destroys drugs worth Rs378b in Quetta

The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) on Thursday destroyed drugs worth at least Rs378 billion, seized in various operations in Quetta.

Federal Minister for Counter-Narcotics Azam Khan Swati and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Qasim Suri were also present on the occasion.

"Severe punishment would be given to those who are destroying the future of our youth," Swati said. "We will continue our war for the complete elimination of drugs, as well as its smugglers."

Swati added that the capability of ANF would be increased for the complete eradication of drugs from the country and stressed that everyone, especially the media and parents, should play their role to ensure a drug-free environment for our youth.

ANF's Brigadier Aqib Nazir Chaudhry said that the force was making all possible efforts to curb the menace in the country. “[At least] 180 tonnes of various types of drugs have been burnt. Its value in the international market is more than Rs378 billion," he added.

In August, the ANF foiled a smuggling bid and confiscated 177 kilogrammes of methamphetamine at the containers terminal of Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport.

According to the ANF, they received a tip-off and searched 10 containers bound for Dubai, finding drugs in eight.

ANF officials stated that the containers had been booked by Saheer Trading Company in Sialkot and were to be received by Huzaifa Trading Company in Dubai.

They further claimed that methamphetamine was more dangerous than heroin.

A case was registered against the exporters was registered and an investigation launched into the trading company as well as the suspects, Abdul Waris and Sadiq Khan.

The ANF also seized 28kg of heroin and 9kg of hashish from a car at Sahiyanwala Toll Plaza and arrested a suspected smuggler in July.