ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Customs Department is making its moves to stop smuggling and drug trafficking. They have managed to seize drugs and precursors by using intelligent information sharing, risk assessment, and effective coordination with their neighboring customs authorities.
These successes were highlighted when Pakistan hosted the four-day long 8th Expert-Level Meeting of the Inter-Regional Network of Customs Authorities and Port Control Units in Islamabad. Furthermore, the participants have appreciated Pakistan’s efforts.
Customs Seizes Tonnes of Methamphetamine and Opium
In 2024, 1.7 tons of methamphetamine were confiscated. This was followed in 2025 by a further confiscation of 1.3 tons of methamphetamine and 2.6 tons of opium. In addition, more than 14 tons of red phosphorus were confiscated, as well as almost 100 kilograms of cocaine, and significant quantities of psychotropic substances intended for international use.
Regional Network Strengthens Cooperation Against Illicit Trade
According to the Pakistan Customs Member (Operations), Syed Shakeel Shah, this was an important achievement. It improved trust and coordination between different countries of this region.
Moreover, in 2019, the Inter-Regional Network was established with 36 ports and airports from nine different countries. This network allows for sharing of information on a real-time basis with the aim of dealing with transnational crime. According to UNODC’s Criminal Justice Adviser, Arsalan Malik, the crime networks keep exploiting the increasing connectivity between nations.
