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Lahore, Under the directive of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Punjab Police have significantly ramped up their efforts to combat drug trafficking across the province. Over a span of 51 days, the police have conducted a major offensive against drug dealers, resulting in thousands of arrests and substantial seizures of illegal substances.
According to Punjab Police, the campaign led by Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar has seen more than 15,000 raids on drug hideouts, with 7,308 cases registered and 7,770 suspects arrested. During these operations, police have confiscated large quantities of drugs, including 5,067 kilograms of hashish, over 26 kilograms of ice, 215 kilograms of opium, 95 kilograms of heroin, and 99,254 liters of liquor.
The spokesperson for Punjab Police detailed that in the last 24 hours alone, 311 raids were conducted across various locations including Lahore, resulting in 145 arrests and 141 new cases against those involved in the drug trade. Confiscations from these recent raids included 96 kilograms of hashish, 5 kilograms of heroin, 480 grams of ice, and 1,578 liters of liquor.
IG Punjab has emphasized the importance of disrupting the drug supply chain and has directed that intelligence-based operations be particularly focused around educational institutions and hostels to safeguard young populations. This intensive push against drug trafficking is part of a broader strategy to foster a drug-free environment in Punjab.