In a major breakthrough, authorities arrested nine members of an international drug smuggling gang involved in swapping a passenger’s baggage tag at Lahore Airport, falsely implicating a family traveling to Jeddah.
Thanks to swift government intervention, the detained family was released from Saudi custody and safely returned to Pakistan. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi played a key role in securing their freedom, personally welcoming them home and congratulating them on their return.
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During a press conference, Minister Naqvi expressed gratitude to Saudi authorities for their cooperation and commended the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) for its decisive action against drug traffickers. He also warned the public to remain cautious of individuals offering free Umrah trips, as such schemes are often used for illicit activities.
Naqvi revealed that a large-scale crackdown on drug trafficking is underway. He confirmed that the innocent family was trapped in a narcotics case and emphasized that the gang was apprehended within 48 hours. The culprits, including some airport staff, were identified and evidence was shared with Saudi authorities.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to combating drug smuggling, Naqvi stated that no one involved in such crimes would be spared. He also highlighted ANF’s continuous efforts to prevent drug distribution, particularly in educational institutions.
DG ANF disclosed that on December 23, the gang used a family’s luggage for smuggling by swapping their bag tag. Methamphetamine (Ice) was planted in their baggage on a Lahore-Jeddah flight, leading to the wrongful arrest of all five family members in Saudi Arabia.
A thorough investigation of airport entry and exit points led to the arrest of a porter, whose interrogation uncovered the entire network. Concrete evidence was then provided to Saudi authorities, securing the family’s release.
The affected family expressed immense relief, sharing that they endured significant distress but were ultimately saved due to the swift and coordinated efforts of Minister Naqvi and the Pakistani government.
