KARACHI: Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigations (I&I) Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PSMA) have recovered 1.5 ton narcotics worth Rs 1.2 billion and arrested ten smugglers during a joint operation.
According to details, the Pakistan Customs Intelligence and Investigations received information that a huge quantity of drugs was being smuggled through international sea route on which the officers contacted the PSMA.
Based on information, the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency deployed its ships on different locations of the international sea route. On the night of January 2, the officers of the Customs and PSMA forced a boat to stop after a three hours chase. The officials recovered 1.5 ton narcotics from the hidden compartments of the boat. The international market value of the narcotics is said to be Rs 1.2 billion.
The source said that the consignment was designated for US and Europe markets though East Africa where crystal drugs are in huge demand. During the raid, ten smugglers were also apprehended and an FIR has been lodged against them.
The source said that the smugglers are being grilled and an international network of the narcotics smugglers will be unearthed very soon. In last three months, it was the third major successful narcotics seizure. The Pakistan Customs Intelligence and Investigations ASO, along with Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, has successfully carried out fourth operation during the last three months, added the sources.
