Islamabad split into five zones for anti-drug campaign

Islamabad split into five zones for anti-drug campaign

The federal capital, Islamabad, has been divided into five zones to strengthen awareness campaigns against drug abuse, particularly in educational institutions. In addition, special anti-drug units have been established at every police station.

This was revealed in a report submitted by Islamabad Police in Islamabad High Court (IHC), outlining measures taken against drug trafficking in the vicinity of educational institutions across the federal capital. Director Legal, Islamabad Police, Tahir Kazim, has submitted the report.

The report stated that Police officers are conducting regular meetings with the administrations of educational institutions in each zone. At the same time, open courts are also being organised in different areas to engage the public.  In addition, special anti-drug units have been established at every police station.

The report stated that Islamabad Police have also launched specialised training programs for officers to enhance efforts against drug trafficking, improve evidence collection, and ensure effective prosecution so that accused individuals can be convicted by the courts.

It is informed that during operations carried out near educational institutions in 2025, Islamabad Police registered 27 cases and arrested 30 suspects. Authorities recovered 19,660 grams of hashish, 3,390 grams of heroin, 4,073 grams of ice (crystal meth), and 120 drug pills.

In January 2026 alone, police registered 21 cases and arrested 21 suspects. The recovered narcotics included 1,530 grams of hashish, 4,641 grams of heroin, and 2,226 grams of ice.

The report further noted that coordination has been enhanced with the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) as well as the police of Rawalpindi and Attock to organise joint awareness programs aimed at preventing and eradicating drug abuse.

On the other hand, according to international organisations, drug use in Pakistan has increased.

The number of drug addicts is rising rapidly in major cities, where individuals from surrounding areas migrate and become involved in drug abuse. In cities such as Karachi, Peshawar and Lahore, this trend is becoming increasingly alarming.

Due to the easy availability of narcotics, drug use in groups has become common in the hostels of universities and colleges.

It is a matter of serious concern and regret that, in addition to male students, female students are also increasingly falling victim to drug addiction. Students in Islamabad, as well as in other cities across the country, are being affected by this growing menace.  It is therefore essential that effective action be taken against courier service personnel involved in such activities, and that court orders are implemented in both letter and spirit.

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