Full Breakdown
Punjab Police and Counter Narcotics Force Collaborate to Combat Drug Trafficking
12/20/2025, 6:11:31 AM
Joint Operations Against Drug Trafficking
On December 19, 2025, Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar convened a high-level meeting with Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal, the Director General of the Counter Narcotics Force (CNF) Punjab, to enhance efforts against drug trafficking in the province. This meeting, held at the Central Police Office in Lahore, aimed to align strategies under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision of a "Drug-Free Punjab." Both leaders agreed on the necessity of joint operations and intelligence sharing to target high-profile drug dealers and disrupt supply lines.
Dr. Anwar emphasized the importance of developing operational plans that involve all Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs) in collaboration with the CNF. He also highlighted the need for training and technical support for CNF personnel in investigation and prosecution processes related to drug offenses.
Ongoing Crackdowns and Local Operations
In a related effort, police in Dera Ismail Khan conducted operations that resulted in the arrest of three drug dealers and the seizure of nearly two kilograms of narcotics, including hashish and Ice drug. These actions were part of a broader crackdown against drug-related crimes, led by District Police Officer Sajjad Ahmed Sahibzada. The police reiterated their commitment to combating drug trafficking within the district.
Similarly, in Islamabad, the police established a Special Intelligence Wing to monitor drug peddlers near educational institutions. This initiative aims to address rising concerns about drug use among students and involves undercover operations to identify suspects discreetly.
Official Statements & Responses
Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal praised the efforts of the Counter Narcotics Cell in combating drug trafficking and reaffirmed the commitment of both forces to eradicate drug-related issues in Punjab. Dr. Anwar directed police officials to ensure the timely maintenance of equipment and improve citizen facilities at police stations, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in resolving complaints.
Criticism & Opposition
While the initiatives have been welcomed by some, concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of such operations. Critics argue that without addressing the root causes of drug trafficking, such as poverty and lack of education, these measures may only provide temporary relief. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the potential for civil rights violations during undercover operations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are varying reports regarding the scale of drug trafficking in Punjab and the effectiveness of current police operations. While some sources indicate a significant increase in drug-related arrests, others suggest that the problem persists unabated, highlighting a gap in comprehensive data on drug trafficking trends in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
“He reaffirmed that, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision, both forces will work together to make Punjab free from the scourge of drugs.” — Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal, Director General, CNF Punjab
“I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and determination that the Maldon policing teams are displaying in tackling criminality head on.” — Dr. Usman Anwar, Inspector General of Police, Punjab
“Read more : ICT police vow zero tolerance for lawbreakers Police authorities stressed that protecting students from drug abuse is a top priority.” — Islamabad Police Officials
What's Next
The Punjab Police and CNF plan to implement joint operational strategies and continue monitoring drug-related activities closely. Future initiatives may include public awareness campaigns and further collaboration with educational institutions to prevent drug abuse among students.
