ISLAMABAD: The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), working with Pakistan’s Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), has seized 463 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in joint operations, according to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad.
The embassy said the seized drugs, commonly known as “crystal meth” or “glass,” originated from smuggling networks linked to Afghanistan. The shipment was reportedly valued at more than $21 million and was destined for Sri Lanka.
Several individuals have also been arrested in connection with the seizures, according to the U.S. Embassy. The arrests and drug seizures are part of joint efforts by U.S. and Pakistani authorities to disrupt international narcotics trafficking networks.
The U.S. Embassy highlighted the role of cooperation and training between American and Pakistani law-enforcement agencies in countering drug trafficking. It said the operations demonstrate the effectiveness of efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity to target international narcotics networks and prevent illicit drugs from reaching markets outside the region.
Afghanistan has long been identified by international authorities as a major source and transit point for illicit drugs, although trafficking networks operate across multiple countries and routes.
The latest seizure comes amid continued international efforts to disrupt the production, trafficking and distribution of synthetic drugs in the region. Authorities say cooperation between countries remains important in tracking trafficking networks, intercepting shipments and bringing those involved before the law.