Punjab CNF arrests 175 suspects in 155 operations, seizes 969kg of narcotics

The Punjab Counter Narcotics Force (CNF) has intensified its province-wide crackdown against drug trafficking, arresting 175

LAHORE, November 5: The Punjab Counter Narcotics Force (CNF) has intensified its province-wide crackdown against drug trafficking, arresting 175 suspects and seizing 969 kilograms of narcotics during 155 operations conducted since October 16.

The campaign is being carried out in line with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision of a Drug-Free Punjab, as authorities step up efforts to curb the sale, transportation and smuggling of illegal drugs across the province.

According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Counter Narcotics Force, the operations have resulted in significant recoveries of various prohibited substances, preventing attempts to transport and distribute narcotics through different areas of Punjab.

Narcotics and Weapons Recovered

The CNF spokesperson revealed that the seized drugs included 62 kilograms of heroin, 21 kilograms of ice (crystal methamphetamine), 172 kilograms of hashish, 566 kilograms of cannabis and 135 kilograms of poppy straw.

In addition to the narcotics, law enforcement personnel recovered a substantial quantity of weapons from the arrested suspects. The seized arms included 43 pistols, seven rifles and three machine guns.

Officials stated that the recoveries indicate continued efforts by drug traffickers to operate across the province, prompting authorities to strengthen intelligence-based operations and enforcement measures against those involved in the illegal trade.

Narcotics Worth Millions Seized

The spokesperson said that the estimated financial value of narcotics confiscated during operations conducted since October 16 stands at Rs174.06 million, equivalent to approximately Rs17 crore and 40 lakh.

The force has also reported substantial recoveries since its establishment. According to the spokesperson, the Punjab Counter Narcotics Force has seized a total of 27.2 tonnes of narcotics since August 2025, with an estimated value of Rs2.702 billion.

The ongoing campaign aims to disrupt drug supply chains, apprehend individuals involved in trafficking and prevent illegal substances from reaching communities, particularly young people.

Crackdown to Continue

The Punjab Counter Narcotics Force reiterated its commitment to continuing operations against drug peddlers and dismantling networks involved in narcotics distribution across the province.

The spokesperson emphasised that the force would pursue its mission with determination until the provincial government’s objective of establishing a Drug-Free Punjab is achieved.

Citizens have also been urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspected drug trafficking, drug peddling and other related activities in their neighbourhoods.

The CNF has established a dedicated helpline, **1012**, where residents can share information regarding suspected narcotics-related activities and assist authorities in taking timely action.

Officials said public cooperation remains essential to strengthening enforcement efforts, disrupting drug networks and protecting communities from the harmful consequences of drug abuse.

The Punjab Counter Narcotics Force maintained that its sustained operations, combined with public awareness and community participation, would contribute towards building a safer and drug-free society across the province.