In Saudi Arabia — as in Pakistan — drug trafficking carries the death penalty. There seems to be little doubt that the heroin was planted on the family — that was intending to perform umrah — by their travel agents who are now in custody.

Although their ordeal is behind them, the family must have learnt the valuable lesson — as should many unsuspecting travellers — that it always pays to be wary. As this incident shows, there is a lack of awareness in Pakistan about drug trafficking and the ease with which innocent people can be trapped by the drug mafia. The travel agent confessed to having perpetrated the same fraud on at least 16 other groups.

There is no knowing how many other gullible citizens of Pakistan unknowingly transport contraband to foreign shores. It is usual, after all, for Pakistani travellers to carry gifts and other items overseas at the behest of friends and family.

Yet, as the globe shrinks, penalties in every country regarding the smuggling of contraband are becoming increasingly strict. And, with many countries now beset with issues of terrorism, it is not just narcotics that are considered contraband. The Pakistani government should initiate a drive to educate people about the various sorts of contraband that are trafficked around the world and the penalties they incur.

Travellers must, as a matter of course, know what is contained in any package or piece of luggage that is given to them by another person. Ignorance of the law is not a viable defence and citizens must be made aware of the rules.