ISLAMABAD: The Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement), Islamabad, has made a historic seizure of narcotics of around Rs 5.40 billion including 1,200 kgs of charas and 100 kgs of poppy seeds on M-2 Motorway.
Addressing a press conference at the Customs House Islamabad on Friday, Moin ud Din Ahmad Wani Collector of Customs (Enforcement) Islamabad and Mariam Mehdi Raja Additional Collector of Customs said that the seizure has been made during an intelligence-based operation conducted by its Anti-Smuggling Squad on the M-2 Motorway.
Sharing anti-smuggling data of seizures made during July-2005 to September 2026, Wani gave presentation that the Enforcement Collectorate Islamabad seized smuggled goods and vehicles worth Rs4.595 billion in 855 cases.
Acting upon a credible tip-off regarding transportation of a substantial quantity of narcotics, the Customs team mounted an intelligence-based operation at the identified location. During the operation, the Customs officials recovered 1,200 kg of charas, approximately 100 kg of poppy seeds, one firearm, and a non-customs-paid luxury vehicle allegedly being used for transportation of the contraband.
The accused persons, upon sensing the presence of the Customs team, managed to flee the scene under the cover of darkness. The seized vehicle and other items were accordingly taken into Customs custody.
The seized narcotics have an estimated international market value of approximately Rs. 5.40 billion. Taking into account the value of the vehicle and other seized items, the total value of the seizure has been assessed at approximately Rs. 5.41 billion.
An FIR has been registered against unknown accused persons under the relevant provisions of the Control of Narcotic Substances Act, 1997, and the Customs Act, 1969, Collector of Customs said.
The Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement), Islamabad, has initiated further investigation to trace and apprehend the persons involved and to ascertain the complete network behind the transportation of the narcotics consignment. Further legal proceedings are being pursued in accordance with law.
To a query, Collector said that the assistance of law enforcement agencies has been sought where ever required.
Highlighting the importance of human intelligence in anti-smuggling operations, Collector added that the technological integration and massive duty reductions under tariff rationalization plan would play a key role in reducing smuggling.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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