KARACHI: A Pakistan Navy ship, operating under the Regional Maritime Security Patrols, in a joint operation with the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) intercepted and confiscated a narcotics-laden fishing boat at sea in southeast of Gwadar.

According to a press release issued by the directorate general of Pakistan Navy’s public relations, the huge cache of narcotics, approximately 1,290 kilograms of hashish amounting to Rs258 million, was hidden in specially made secret compartments of the apprehended vessel. The seized cache of narcotics was handed over to Customs officials for further legal formalities.

The anti-narcotics operation and seizures of narcotics by Pakistan Navy and the PMSA are the result of meticulous planning and constant surveillance of maritime zones of Pakistan and to curb the illicit activities, including piracy, maritime terrorism, narco-arms smuggling and human smuggling, etc.

The Pakistan Navy fleet maintains recognised maritime and air picture to counter any unlawful activity along the coastal belt and areas of responsibility.

In order to fulfil national and international obligations Pakistan Navy and PMSA resolve to continue efforts for maintaining peace and order at sea.

Published in Dawn, February 12th, 2020