Kabul, July 22: Afghan security forces have intensified their crackdown on drug trafficking, foiling multiple smuggling attempts across the country and seizing large quantities of illicit substances in recent days.
In the southern Helmand province, the Afghan National Army thwarted a major smuggling attempt, seizing 730 kg of opium poppy concealed in the cavities of a vehicle. Three alleged smugglers were arrested, and two assault rifles along with satellite phones were recovered from their possession, said army spokesperson Jawed Agha. The arrested individuals and confiscated materials have been handed over for further investigation.
In a separate operation, authorities in Kandahar province publicly destroyed over half a tonne of illegal narcotics on Sunday. The incinerated drugs included 130 kg of opium poppy, 480 kg of methamphetamine, and 660 stimulant tablets. Police officials reiterated their zero-tolerance stance, affirming that no one would be allowed to produce, process, or traffic illegal drugs.
Meanwhile, in western Afghanistan’s Farah province, counter-narcotic police dismantled two drug processing laboratories during a raid in Bakwa district. The operation led to the seizure of 589 kg of illicit drugs and the arrest of nine suspected traffickers, according to a statement from the Deputy Minister of Interior for Counter-Narcotics.
Earlier this month, on July 8, police in Maidan Shar, the capital of Wardak province, intercepted 43 kg of opium-type drugs being transported from Balkh to Farah province. Two suspects were taken into custody during the operation.
These coordinated actions highlight the interim Afghan government’s increasing efforts to combat the illegal drug trade, which has long fueled instability and crime in the region. Authorities continue to conduct targeted operations to dismantle drug networks and enforce strict counter-narcotics laws.
