Balochistan intensifies drive against illegal cannabis

Using drones, satellite mapping, and heavy machinery, authorities eradicated cannabis fields hidden in rugged terrain

The Excise and Taxation Department of Balochistan has intensified its anti-narcotics operations, destroying more than 2,054 acres of illegally cultivated cannabis under the province-wide cannabis elimination drive.

According to official sources, the latest phase of the operation targeted the Gulistan Karez and Sagai areas of District Qila Abdullah, where enforcement teams — assisted by the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) — cleared 310 acres of drug crops within two days. Using drones, satellite mapping, and heavy machinery, authorities identified and eradicated cannabis fields hidden in the rugged terrain.

A departmental spokesperson said that 270 acres were manually destroyed, while another 40 acres of crops withered due to water scarcity. Twenty-one cases have been registered so far, including two new ones following the recent operations.

Officials said the campaign is part of a broader national strategy to curb drug cultivation and trafficking. The department reaffirmed its commitment to a “zero-tolerance policy” against narcotics and pledged continued coordination with the ANF, local administration, and law enforcement agencies.

“The mission is clear — to rid Balochistan of illegal drug cultivation and safeguard future generations,” an official said.