KARACHI: Narcotics were discovered on a Dubai-bound Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) aircraft on Wednesday after the aircraft was instructed to land at Jinnah International Airport.

According to Customs officials, they had received prior information regarding the attempt to smuggle the narcotics aboard PIA flight PK-221.

The aircraft, enroute to Dubai from Lahore. was instructed to land at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.

Read: PIA sacks steward for trying to smuggle mobile phones from UK

Custom officials searched the planed with the aid of sniffer dogs, and discovered 3.1 kilograms heroin concealed in one of the bathrooms. The narcotics were hidden behind the panel sheets.

It is pertinent to mention that this is not the first attempt to smuggle illegal drugs using similar means. The authorities are aware of the method used by the smugglers but have yet to make any arrests.

The narcotics were confiscated by Customs and Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) officials at Karachi airport. An investigation into the incident has been initiated.

Earlier in September, Dawn reported that the management of PIA terminated the service of a flight steward who was caught by United Kingdom authorities at Heathrow airport while trying to smuggle mobile phones through a PIA flight.

PIA crew members have also been arrested in the past for attempting to smuggle narcotics on flights bound for international destinations.