Karachi, March 22, 2025 – The Collectorate of Customs Enforcement successfully intercepted a major smuggling attempt involving 5.6 million Tramadol tablets, valued at approximately Rs 2.8 billion.
This seizure marks a significant achievement in the ongoing crackdown against illegal drug trade in Pakistan.
According to official details, a specialized team from Customs Enforcement, led by Additional Collector Baasit Hussain, executed the operation and prevented the illicit consignment from leaving the country. Tramadol, a potent painkiller classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), is heavily regulated due to its potential for abuse.
The operation was initiated after Collector Moinuddin Wani received credible intelligence regarding an impending smuggling attempt. Acting on this information, he directed Additional Collector Basit Hussain to deploy all necessary resources to thwart the illegal export.
The investigation revealed that the smugglers had concealed the contraband within an export consignment falsely declared as “towels.” The shipment, destined for Freetown, Sierra Leone, had been processed through the Exports Collectorate, Karachi under the name M/s Ahmad Trading. Initially, the consignment had been cleared through the Risk Management System (RMS) via the Green Channel at the National Logistics Cell (NLC).
However, Customs officials grew suspicious and subjected the container to enhanced scrutiny. Under the supervision of Deputy Collector Rabeel Khokhar, the consignment underwent scanning and a 100% physical inspection. This extensive search, led by Superintendent Habib Meo, resulted in the discovery of 5.6 million Tramadol tablets, ingeniously hidden within the shipment. Additionally, biscuits were found inside the container, but no legally declared goods were present.
Authorities believe this smuggling attempt was part of a larger drug trafficking network operating under the guise of legitimate trade. Customs officials have now launched a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in the illicit scheme.
The successful seizure underscores the commitment of Customs Enforcement in curbing smuggling activities, ensuring that Pakistan’s borders remain secure against illegal drug trade.