Suspect arrested as authorities intercept alleged smuggling attempt during routine patrol
ISLAMABAD: The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) on Friday seized a large consignment of non-custom-paid medicines worth more than Rs1 million during a routine patrol on the Hakla-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway and arrested a suspect allegedly involved in the smuggling attempt.
According to an NHMP spokesperson, motorway police officers stopped a suspicious vehicle for inspection after observing unusual activity during patrol. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a significant quantity of medicines that officials said had not cleared customs requirements.
The spokesperson confirmed that one individual found inside the vehicle was taken into custody at the scene, while authorities immediately launched preliminary investigations into the suspected smuggling operation.
Initial inquiry traces route
According to investigators, the suspect was allegedly transporting the medicines from Zhob to Peshawar. Officials believe the shipment was intended to be moved through the motorway network before reaching its final destination.
Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the suspect or provided details about the type and quantity of medicines recovered. The investigation remains ongoing to determine whether additional individuals or networks were involved in the alleged smuggling attempt.
Case handed to Customs authorities
Meanwhile, the NHMP handed over the seized medicines, the vehicle and the arrested suspect to Customs authorities for further legal action in accordance with relevant laws.
Officials said Customs investigators will examine the origin of the medicines, verify import documentation and determine whether further offences were committed under customs and anti-smuggling regulations.
The National Highways and Motorway Police reaffirmed their commitment to preventing the illegal transportation of prohibited and non-duty-paid goods through Pakistan’s motorway network. Authorities also urged the public to report suspicious activity, saying coordinated enforcement efforts remain essential to curbing smuggling and protecting the country’s lawful trade and customs system.
