Bid to smuggle ice foiled in Landikotal

LANDIKOTAL: The police foiled a major bid to smuggle a large quantity of crystal meth (ice) at the Ziaray checkpost in Khyber district, police officials said on Thursday.

Station House Officer Adnan Afridi told reporters that acting on a tip-off, a team led by Ziaray Checkpost in-charge Bahar Gul and other police officials intercepted a suspected car during a special checking operation.

He said the police recovered 48 kilograms of Ice hidden in secret compartments of a suspicious vehicle during a special blockade at Ziaray checkpost. The seized drugs are estimated to be worth millions of rupees.

Adnan Afridi said the crackdown against drug traffickers and dealers was being carried out under the supervision of District Police Officer (DPO) Rai Mazhar Iqbal across the Khyber district.

Upon searching the vehicle, police seized 48 kilograms of crystal meth concealed in hidden compartments of the vehicle. The two accused identified as Maghaz and Hayat Wali, both residents of Bazaar Zakhakhel, were arrested on the spot.

A case has been registered against them and they have been shifted to police custody for further investigation to uncover possible links to broader smuggling networks and facilitators.

DPO Rai Mazhar Iqbal hailed the operation as the biggest anti-narcotics success in the history of Khyber and appreciated the performance of SHO Adnan Afridi and his entire team. He also announced commendation certificates and cash rewards for the officers involved in the operation.

The DPO said the successful bust was a result of the professionalism, dedication and tireless efforts of the police force. He said that anti-narcotics operations would continue without interruption and the police remain vigilant and determined to rid Khyber of drug-related crimes.