Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar announced on Thursday that the provincial government has resolved to establish a specialized narcotics force alongside an independent drone unit aimed at curbing widespread drug trafficking and street-level crime.
Addressing the media following a session of the Sindh Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs, Lanjar detailed a robust provincial strategy focused on dismantling cross-provincial drug networks, particularly those infiltrating educational institutions.
He revealed that the provincial cabinet has approved a comprehensive plan for the new narcotics force, which will work closely with the Sindh Police to enhance enforcement capabilities.
Furthermore, the legislative committee discussed empowering the provincial excise and narcotics department with dedicated policing authority to improve the efficiency of raids, investigations, and prosecutions.
The meeting also highlighted the recent arrest of Anmol, known as “Pinky,” a female inter-provincial drug kingpin apprehended in Karachi. Lanjar disclosed that she faces 28 criminal cases across various jurisdictions, including 12 in Sindh, five in Punjab, and one by the federal Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF).
He emphasized that no individuals or facilitators involved in this drug network, regardless of their status or influence, will be spared from legal action.
Lanjar attributed the intensified crackdown to directives from senior Pakistan People’s Party leader Faryal Talpur, who has called for a zero-tolerance policy against drug cartels operating within Sindh.
In a significant development addressing drug distribution in academic settings, Lanjar announced the creation of a high-level committee dedicated to securing universities and colleges. This panel will design a comprehensive security and anti-narcotics framework tailored for educational institutions across the province.
To enhance surveillance and combat street crime, the home department plans to launch a specialized drone force. Lanjar confirmed that the upcoming provincial budget will include financial provisions for acquiring advanced surveillance drones and cutting-edge technology.
This new aerial unit will operate under the direct administrative control of the Sindh home department, marking a strategic move to monitor difficult-to-access areas and strengthen law enforcement efforts.