Anti-Narcotics Force

The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) is a specialized law enforcement agency in Pakistan tasked with combating the illicit drug trade and related crimes within the country. Established in 1995 under the Anti-Narcotics Force Act, the ANF operates under the authority of the Ministry of Narcotics Control, Government of Pakistan. Its primary mandate is to prevent drug trafficking, disrupt drug smuggling networks, and reduce drug abuse and addiction through enforcement, interdiction, and awareness programs.

Comprehensive Overview:

Roles and Responsibilities:

Drug Interdiction:
- The ANF is responsible for intercepting, seizing, and confiscating illicit drugs, including heroin, opium, cocaine, cannabis, and synthetic drugs, at various stages of the trafficking process.
- It conducts intelligence-driven operations, surveillance activities, and border patrols to detect and interdict drug smuggling activities across Pakistan’s borders and within the country.
Investigations and Prosecutions:
- ANF officers investigate drug-related crimes, gather evidence, and build cases against individuals and criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, manufacturing, distribution, and money laundering.
- They collaborate with judicial authorities, prosecutors, and other law enforcement agencies to prosecute offenders and dismantle drug syndicates operating domestically and internationally.
Border Control and Customs Enforcement:
- The ANF works closely with Pakistan Customs and other border enforcement agencies to monitor and secure the country’s borders, ports, airports, and transit routes against illegal drug trafficking and smuggling.
- It deploys specialized units and technology for border surveillance, cargo inspections, and intelligence sharing to prevent the cross-border movement of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals.
Demand Reduction and Awareness Programs:
- The ANF conducts public awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and community outreach programs to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, addiction, and illicit drug trafficking.
- It collaborates with schools, universities, religious institutions, and civil society organizations to promote drug prevention initiatives, rehabilitation services, and support for individuals affected by substance abuse disorders.

Authorities and Powers:

Search and Seizure:
- The ANF has the authority to conduct searches, raids, and seizures of properties, vehicles, and premises suspected of being involved in drug trafficking or drug-related offenses.
- It may confiscate illicit drugs, drug paraphernalia, assets, and proceeds derived from drug trafficking activities in accordance with relevant laws and judicial procedures.
Arrest and Detention:
- ANF officers are empowered to arrest and detain individuals suspected of drug trafficking, possession, consumption, or involvement in drug-related crimes under the provisions of the Anti-Narcotics Force Act and other applicable statutes.
- They are authorized to interrogate suspects, record statements, and initiate legal proceedings against offenders in coordination with law enforcement and judicial authorities.
International Cooperation and Coordination:
- The ANF collaborates with foreign counterparts, international organizations, and regional partners to exchange intelligence, coordinate joint operations, and combat transnational drug trafficking networks.
- It participates in bilateral and multilateral initiatives aimed at enhancing international cooperation, capacity-building, and technical assistance in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime.

The Anti-Narcotics Force plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health, national security, and social stability by combating the scourge of illicit drugs and drug-related crimes in Pakistan. Through its enforcement efforts, investigative capabilities, and preventive measures, the ANF contributes to the reduction of drug trafficking, addiction, and associated social harms while promoting a drug-free and healthy society.