Pakistan’s maritime forces in a joint operation in the Arabian Sea led to the seizure of narcotics worth up to Rs7 billion internationally. Sindh Excise Minister Mukesh Kumar Chawla shared details at a Karachi press conference.
Authorities intercepted vessels used for drug smuggling through sea routes. This operation was led by the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) and the Sindh Excise Department. During one operation, they seized 100 kilograms of crystal meth (ice) and 550 kilograms of hashish. In a separate raid, they uncovered 2,100 bottles of foreign liquor.
The Pakistan Navy and the Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre (JMICC) also joined. Surveillance and patrols spotted a stateless vessel. A search revealed over 500 kilograms of hashish and meth. Another intelligence-based operation targeted liquor smuggling.
Today, I briefed the media with the Maritime Security Agency on our joint operation at sea, the biggest this year.
We seized 500kg of high-grade charas, 100kg of crystal ice, and 2,100 bottles of foreign liquor worth Rs. 7 billion. These deadly substances could’ve harmed over… pic.twitter.com/BDYpwHn9bJ
— Mukesh Kumar Chawla (@mukeshchawlappp) July 14, 2025
Officials estimate the haul’s local value at over Rs1 billion. Internationally, it reaches Rs5-7 billion. These actions disrupt transnational networks. Items now sit with the Narcotics Control Wing for probes.
Timely intelligence and real-time teamwork drove the wins. Minister Chawla praised the agencies’ commitment. They protect sea borders and boost regional security. Boats used in smuggling were also seized. Such operations show Pakistan’s resolve against drug trafficking. The excise department plans to share more intelligence with PMSA.
Chawla announced that there will be no fines for old number plates until August 14, 2025. Citizens can transfer their vehicles without facing any penalties, and no challans will be issued for plate-related issues before that date. So far, officials have issued two million plates, including 1.2 million for motorcycles.