In a significant crackdown on international drug trafficking, Pakistani customs officials have intercepted a substantial consignment of Tramadol tablets destined for Freetown, Sierra Leone.
The seizure underscores growing concerns about the nation’s role in global narcotics networks.
On March 22, 2025, the Collectorate of Customs Enforcement in Karachi confiscated approximately 5.6 million Tramadol Hydrochloride tablets. The shipment, falsely declared as “towels,” was intercepted at the Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT) following a detailed inspection. The estimated value of the seized drugs is approximately 2.8 billion Pakistani Rupees (approximately 1.1 billion Leones).
The exporting company, M/s Ahmad Trading, had filed the necessary documentation with the Exports Collectorate in Karachi. The consignment was initially cleared through the Risk Management System’s green channel, which typically bypasses thorough examination. However, acting on credible intelligence, customs authorities flagged the container for further scrutiny. A subsequent scan and physical examination revealed the hidden Tramadol tablets, along with undeclared biscuits, concealed behind a facade of legitimate goods.
A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against M/s Ahmad Trading and their clearing agent, Speed Line (Private) Limited, for violating the Customs Act and the Import and Export Control Act of 1950. The authorities allege that the companies misused the green channel and provided false declarations to facilitate the smuggling operation.
Tramadol, a controlled psychotropic drug in many countries, is widely abused in Africa and the Middle East. Sierra Leone has been grappling with the challenges posed by illicit drug trafficking and abuse. In recent years, the country has witnessed several incidents highlighting the severity of the issue:
– July 2024: The Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) of the Sierra Leone Police, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, destroyed over $1 million worth of drugs, including Tramadol and Diclofenac.
– April 2024: The Sierra Leone Police, in collaboration with other partners, burned a significant quantity of narcotic drugs worth over $200,000 at the TOCU headquarters.
– July 2024: The Government of Sierra Leone, through various agencies, destroyed over $94 million worth of illicit drugs, including those seized by the Pharmacy Board and Captagonpills intercepted by intelligence officials.
These incidents highlight the ongoing efforts by Sierra Leonean authorities to combat the influx and abuse of illicit drugs. The recent seizure in Pakistan serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by international drug trafficking networks targeting the country.
Call to Action
The Customs authorities in Pakistan are now working to dismantle the entire smuggling network involved in this illicit trade. This investigation underscores the challenges faced in combating international drug trafficking and the need for enhanced security measures at ports to prevent such shipments from reaching Sierra Leone and other destinations.
Sierra Leonean authorities continue to urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking. Collaborative efforts between international and local agencies are crucial in safeguarding the nation’s health and security