PM Shehbaz Sharif leads crackdown on smuggling operations

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to intensify efforts to combat smuggling in the country. He reiterated his commitment to eradicating this menace and directed authorities to accelerate the nationwide drive against smuggling. The premier commended Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir for his cooperation in the government's anti-smuggling initiatives.

During the meeting, a report by the investigation committee, led by AD Khawaja, was presented. The committee successfully identified individuals involved in misusing the Afghan Transit Trade (ATT) for smuggling purposes, along with the officers aiding them. PM Shehbaz praised the committee's work and instructed the removal of identified officers from their positions, initiating disciplinary actions against them.

The prime minister emphasized the need for collaboration among law enforcement agencies and intelligence services to effectively curb smuggling activities. He called for stringent measures against smugglers and drug dealers, urging immediate legislative actions by the law ministry. PM Shehbaz also stressed the importance of providing alternative livelihood opportunities and a supportive environment for youth in frontier regions.

Furthermore, he ordered the complete elimination of sugar smuggling and allocated funds to assess the extent of drug consumption at the national level. The meeting highlighted the smuggling and misuse of various goods, including drugs, sugar, wheat, fertilizers, petroleum products, and illegal weapons. A national anti-smuggling strategy, currently in its final stages, will soon be presented for approval after consultations with stakeholders.

Law enforcement agencies recently conducted a successful raid on a smuggling goods warehouse in Mastung, seizing goods valued at over Rs10 billion. PM Shehbaz commended the agencies for their swift actions in combating smuggling activities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's unwavering determination to eliminate smuggling and his proactive approach in coordinating anti-smuggling efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding the country's economic interests and national security.