QUETTA: Customs officials at the Noshki check post intercepted a truck carrying a massive quantity of “ice” (crystal meth) worth an estimated Rs18 billion, in what authorities are calling one of the largest narcotics seizures of the year.
According to officials, the vehicle—a heavy diesel tanker originally designed for fuel transport—was travelling from Tafan, Quetta and was reportedly en route to Sindh. Upon inspection, officers discovered that the tanker’s original fuel compartment had been ingeniously modified to conceal over 300 kilograms of the drug.
Sources within Customs said the truck was part of an organised smuggling route frequently used to transport narcotics across provincial borders. “The smugglers had gone to great lengths to disguise the consignment. This operation demonstrates the increasing sophistication of such networks,” an officer said, requesting anonymity.
Experts warn that smuggling of crystal meth, commonly known as ice, is becoming a growing challenge in the region, particularly along the Quetta–Sindh corridor.
Customs authorities have launched a full investigation and are working to trace the network behind the seized consignment. “This successful operation is a major blow to drug traffickers,” said a senior official, adding that the driver has been taken into custody and further arrests are expected.
The seizure comes amid growing concerns about cross-border drug trafficking and the rising demand for methamphetamine in urban centres across Pakistan.
