Pawan Kumar
KARACHI: The Sindh government has launched a crackdown on items used for smoking or inhaling drugs. This initiative was decided in an important meeting of the Excise Narcotics Control Wing held in Karachi, chaired by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon.
During the meeting, Senior Minister Memon, who also serves as the Provincial Minister for Information, Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control, ordered a comprehensive crackdown on items used in drug preparation. He directed that the sale of narcotic-related items such as Rizla paper, rolling machines, meth pipes, glass pipes, and similar products in shops must be completely eradicated.
Minister Memon emphasized the necessity for shopkeepers to cooperate with the Excise Narcotics Control Wing by refraining from selling items used for smoking or inhaling drugs. He clarified that strict action will be taken against any reports of drug sales at private locations, including houses, hotels, or restaurants. Authorities have the power to conduct raids on these premises, including parties, after obtaining approval from the competent authority if necessary.
He expressed grave concern over the growing trend of drug use in society, particularly among the youth. He stressed that operations against drug trafficking need to be accelerated, with full cooperation from both the Rangers and police.
In the meeting, Minister Memon instructed the full activation of mobile units within the Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Wing. He also ordered the establishment of Excise Department check posts at key locations across Karachi. These checkpoints are to be set up in Emar, Malir, Derakhshan, Hawke’s Bay, and other strategic locations to prevent drug trafficking.
Excise Secretary Muhammad Saleem Rajput informed the meeting that 216 excise officers are currently undergoing training by the police, and 320 officers have been assigned to the Narcotics Control Wing. Secretary Excise and Taxation Muhammad Saleem Rajput, DG Narcotics Control Usman Ghani Siddiqui, and other senior officers participated in the meeting.
This operation reflects the Sindh government’s commitment to combating drug use and trafficking, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for its citizens.
