Massive Narcotics Haul Seized in Joint Maritime Operation

Sindh Excise Minister Mukesh Chawla announced Monday that maritime and law enforcement agencies conducted successful collaborative operations at sea, seizing a significant quantity of narcotics estimated to be worth between Rs5-7 billion on the international market.

During a press briefing held in Karachi, Chawla detailed that a joint operation with the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) resulted in the seizure of 100 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as ice) and 550 kilograms of hashish.

He further stated that 2,100 bottles of foreign liquor were also impounded in a separate operation executed by the provincial excise department just the day before.

Chawla explained that the narcotics were being smuggled via sea routes using boats. These vessels were impounded during the combined operation carried out by the PMSA and the excise department.

In a notable setback for regional smuggling networks, the maritime and law enforcement agencies successfully recovered a substantial amount of narcotics and illegal liquor in two distinct operations within the Arabian Sea.

According to a press release issued by the PMSA on Monday, the collaborative efforts involved the Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA), Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre (JMICC), and the Narcotics Control Wing of Sindh’s Excise and Taxation Department.

The initial operation involved surveillance and synchronized maritime patrols, which resulted in the interception of a vessel without a registered state.

Following the boarding and a thorough search, authorities discovered over 500 kilograms of hashish and crystal methamphetamine (Ice).

In another intelligence-driven operation (IBO), a separate vessel was discovered carrying illegal liquor intended for unlawful distribution.

The total value of the seized contraband is projected to exceed Rs1 billion, representing a considerable disruption to transnational narcotics trafficking in the region.

Authorities have attributed the success of these operations to the prompt exchange of intelligence, real-time coordination, and effective joint execution among all participating forces.

The seized items have been transferred to the Narcotics Control Wing for further inquiry and legal proceedings.

Officials highlighted that these operations demonstrate the robust coordination and dedication of Pakistan’s maritime and law enforcement institutions to combat smuggling, safeguard the nation’s sea borders, and ensure maritime security in the region.

During the press conference, the Sindh minister also conveyed that the government has extended the deadline for citizens to transfer vehicle ownership without incurring penalties until August 14.

He clarified that no challans will be issued for number plate-related concerns until the deadline.

Chawla specified that two million number plates have been issued thus far, including 1.2 million for motorcycles.

Addressing the topic of cultural symbols, he voiced disapproval of negative comments concerning Ajrak and denounced what he described as “Ajrak phobia” among certain individuals.