Large Haul of Narcotic Pills Seized in Balkh Province

Balkh security officials have announced the seizure of a significant quantity of narcotic pills following a special operation by the province’s counter-narcotics police. According to the report, authorities confiscated 1,610 tablets of Zikap and 255 tablets of Methadone, both commonly traded illegal substances on the black market.

Security officials stated that the pills were collected from various parts of Balkh province. Efforts are ongoing to trace the distribution routes. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the case and, after preliminary investigations, have been handed over to judicial authorities.

Although drug trafficking and abuse remain major social and security challenges in Afghanistan, the Taliban administration has not only failed to effectively combat the issue, but numerous reports suggest that access to drugs has become easier under their rule. Experts warn that in the absence of preventative programs and a clear judicial process, the illegal drug trade could expand significantly.