Pakistan Customs makes large drug seizure with UNODC drug testing kit

Using a UNODC drug testing kit, the Pakistan Customs' Drug Enforcement Cell (DEC) seized 4kg of methamphetamine worth millions of rupees from a Malaysian citizen's suitcase at the Karachi Airport in April 2011.

The officer, who carried out the seizure, was one of the trainees at a UNODC drugs identification course held earlier this year. He conducted a chemical test using the UNODC testing kit, which gave a positive for methamphetamine. The seized drug was later sent to the laboratory for further analysis.

DEC staff intercepted the passenger at the international terminal, from where he was about to board a flight for Malaysia. The passenger seemed to be nervous during the interrogation, which led the DEC staff to search his baggage.

The search revealed a white crystalline substance packed in two polythene bags concealed in a suitcase with secret compartments. Following the seizure of the drug, the passenger was arrested and a case was registered against him under the Control of Narcotics Substances Act, 1997. Further investigation is in progress.

Background

UNODC drug testing kits provide law enforcement personnel with the means to test for illicit drugs, including narcotics such as opium and heroin, as well as psychotropic substances like amphetamines. UNODC also manufactures precursor testing kits that help identify precursor chemicals used to make drugs, such as acetic anhydride, which is used to make heroin.