The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has successfully dismantled a significant drug trafficking network in Southern Punjab, which was supplying narcotics to students via social media and e-commerce platforms.
Operated by two brothers, this network specialized in the large-scale distribution of party drugs to young people. Acting on intelligence reports, the ANF apprehended the suspects and seized a substantial cache of drugs, including 1,500 ecstasy pills, 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine (commonly known as ice), and 2 kilograms of cannabis.
ANF officials revealed that the duo organized drug-fueled rave parties in various homes and hotels in Multan, specifically targeting students residing in hostels for their sales. This operation is part of the ANF’s broader initiative to combat drug smuggling and illegal sales within educational institutions, aiming to expose students involved in such activities and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Earlier this month, the ANF launched a nationwide initiative addressing drug abuse in educational settings, with the chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) acknowledging the rising concern regarding narcotics consumption among college and university students. A 2022 ANF study found that approximately 53 percent of students had encountered drugs, with about 27 percent admitting to having used them.
Additionally, the ANF recently conducted 11 operations across the country, recovering 437 kg of drugs valued at approximately Rs 80 million and arresting nine suspects. In Kalabat, Town Bypass, Haripur, 3.6 kg of hashish was seized from one of the apprehended individuals, who confessed to supplying drugs to students in educational institutions.
