Khyber Pakhtunkhwa minister orders decisive crackdown on drug trafficking in Charsadda

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Syed Fakhar Jehan has directed local police and the excise department to produce visible results against the synthetic drug trade in Charsadda within one month. Speaking at an open public forum in Charsadda, the minister reaffirmed the provincial government’s zero-tolerance policy against narcotics, aiming to protect the youth from drug abuse. The forum was attended by various cabinet members, district administration officials, local elders, and civil society representatives.

During the forum, Jehan addressed public grievances and issued immediate directives to resolve several community issues on the spot. He stated that the provincial government is striving to establish a people-centric administrative system that addresses local concerns directly, in line with the vision of the provincial leadership. He warned that any official negligence or delay in resolving legitimate public complaints would not be tolerated.

Highlighting the gravity of the drug problem, the minister described narcotics as an organised threat targeting the younger generation, noting that highly addictive substances like crystal methamphetamine have devastated numerous families. In response, a joint operation by the police and the excise department will target drug networks in Charsadda. Officials found aiding or engaging in the drug trade will face strict legal action and dismissal from service, while a new security check-post will be established at Marchaki Bridge to curb smuggling.

Jehan also outlined a broader strategy to support recovery and rehabilitation for affected individuals. To address underlying socio-economic drivers of drug abuse, the provincial government is promoting youth employment opportunities through the Ehsaas Nawjawan Scheme. Additionally, the minister addressed issues raised by local tobacco farmers, promising that the excise department would coordinate with the Pakistan Tobacco Board to protect growers’ interests against purchasing disputes with tobacco companies.