Customs officials arrested two people travelling to Dubai after allegedly finding concealed hashish in their baggage at Jinnah International Airport.
KARACHI: Pakistan Customs officials at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi have foiled an alleged attempt to smuggle approximately 580 grams of hashish (charas) out of the country and arrested two passengers travelling to Dubai.
The incident occurred at around 10pm on September 17, when a Customs machine operator deployed at the international departures area detected suspicious baggage during routine screening.
The baggage belonged to a husband and wife travelling to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on FlyDubai flight FZ-330.
Hashish Found in Concealed Compartments
Following the initial detection, Customs officials subjected both pieces of baggage to a detailed examination.
During the inspection, officers recovered two wooden jewellery boxes that had been fitted with specially designed concealments. Further examination of the boxes led to the recovery of approximately 290 grams (gross) of hashish from each box.
The total quantity of seized narcotics was approximately 580 grams (gross), with an estimated value of around Rs2 million.
The contraband was seized under the relevant provisions of law, while both passengers were arrested in connection with the alleged smuggling attempt.
FIR Registered, Investigation Underway
Pakistan Customs said an FIR has been registered under applicable provisions of the Control of Narcotic Substances (CNS) Act.
Further investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempt and determine whether other individuals were involved.
The case comes as Customs authorities continue to use risk-based profiling and baggage screening at international airports to identify suspected attempts to transport prohibited and restricted goods.
Customs Strengthens Airport Screening
Pakistan Customs said its enforcement measures include risk-based profiling, advanced baggage screening and targeted examination mechanisms at international entry and exit points.
The department said these measures are aimed at preventing the movement of narcotics and other prohibited or restricted goods while protecting Pakistan’s economic and national interests.
Authorities will continue investigating the case to determine the full circumstances of the alleged smuggling attempt.