Manan Mandokhail:
QUETTA: The Balochistan government has intensified its fight against drug cultivation following reports of poppy crops in Killa Abdullah and Pishin districts. Commissioner Quetta Division, Hamza Shafaqaat, announced strict actions against landowners involved in drug cultivation during a high-level meeting.
Key measures include arresting violators, confiscating their land, and blocking their national identity cards, bank accounts, and local certificates. Officials warned that strict legal action would follow any violations.
“Drug cultivation undermines our communities. Those involved will face severe consequences,” stated Commissioner Hamza Shafaqat. He also highlighted recent operations that destroyed drug factories and seized thousands of tons of drugs in Pishin and Killa Abdullah.
The meeting, attended by Additional Commissioner Agha Samiullah, Secretary Excise, Sector Commander ANF, and Deputy Commissioners, emphasized joint efforts against cultivation, smuggling, and drug trade.
The crackdown will be led by the provincial task force, supervised by the Additional Chief Secretary Home, ensuring effective implementation across Quetta Division.
The decision to block the national identity cards, passports, and bank accounts of individuals involved in drug cultivation in Chaman, Killa Abdullah, and Zhob districts of Balochistan has been widely welcomed by residents of the area.
Locals have praised the administration for taking this bold step, which they say addresses their long-standing demand to curb drug cultivation.
The illicit practice has been a major contributor to the rise in drug addiction in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan, prompting calls for stricter measures to combat the issue. Residents hope this initiative will deter drug cultivation and help tackle the growing addiction problem in the province.
