Punjab CNF dismantles ice smuggling network; arrest four key members

LAHORE: In strict implementation of the Chief Minister Punjab’s vision of a “Drug-Free Punjab,” the Punjab Counter Narcotics Force (CNF), in collaboration with the Intelligence Bureau (IB), has dismantled a major inter-provincial Ice (crystal meth) smuggling network during a coordinated intelligence-led operation.

The 72-hour joint Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) resulted in the arrest of four key members of the network, including its kingpin, and the recovery of narcotics worth millions of rupees. The successful operation effectively disrupted the supply chain that was transporting narcotics from Quetta to educational institutions across Punjab.

The operation commenced when the Strike Team of the Narcotics Control Station (NCS), Multan, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended a major drug trafficker, Aslam, along with his accomplice. During the operation, 10 kilograms of high-grade Ice (crystal meth) were recovered from their possession. Subsequent investigations revealed that the consignment had been smuggled from Gulistan, Balochistan, into Punjab and that the network’s primary targets were major educational institutions across the province.

Based on vital disclosures and actionable leads obtained during Aslam’s interrogation, the second phase of the operation was launched with the support of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), utilizing both technical surveillance and human intelligence tracking. As a result, the network’s kingpin, Aman Ullah, a resident of Pakpattan, along with his facilitator and driver, Rizwan, was successfully traced and arrested in Multan. An additional five kilograms of Ice were recovered from their possession, bringing the total seizure to 15 kilograms, with an estimated international market value of Rs. 23 million.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Aman Ullah was operating the entire narcotics distribution network across the Multan and Sahiwal Divisions and maintained direct financial and supply links with major drug traffickers, identified as Lala and Nasrullah, based in Quetta.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Counter Narcotics Force stated that the operation represents a decisive and effective blow against criminal elements attempting to target educational institutions and endanger the future of the province’s youth. The spokesperson reiterated that Punjab CNF remains committed to its zero-tolerance policy against drug traffickers and commended the exceptional professionalism, dedication, and operational excellence displayed by all officers and personnel involved in the successful operation.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026