KARACHI, Nov 18: Pakistan is firm on its resolve to stop illicit drug trade and no heroin laboratories will ever be allowed in the country, said a statment issued by the Anti- Narcotics Force.

As regard to smuggling of drugs from Afghanistan into Pakistan due to the US bombings, the statment said that because of the strict security measures on the border, it would be very difficult for the smugglers to resort to this practice.

It stated that as per unconfirmed reports the prices of opium and heroin in areas of Afghanistan, bordering Pakistan, have dropped by Rs10,000 to 15,000 per kg.

According to a UNDCP report, the statement said, poppy cultivation was drastically reduced in the Taliban-controlled areas last year, whereas it increased in areas under the control of the Northern Alliance.