Punjab’s crackdown on drug dealers has escalated dramatically, with at least 22 suspected drug peddlers killed in a series of alleged encounters across several districts.
The Crime Control Department (CCD) carried out coordinated operations in Faisalabad, Multan, Sahiwal, Okara, Gujranwala, Jhelum, Kamalia, Lodhran, Khanewal, Gojra, Alipur, Hasilupur, Chiniot and other areas, marking one of the province’s most aggressive anti-narcotics actions this year.
In Faisalabad, four drug dealers were killed across three alleged encounters, while two accomplices escaped. Police also confirmed that three officials, including the in-charge of a post, were suspended for allegedly taking bribes and facilitating the escape of drug dealers.
Authorities say a search operation is currently underway for the fleeing suspects.
Encounters reported in Sahiwal, Okara, Multan
CCD operations continued in Sahiwal and Okara, where three drug dealers described as “dangerous and notorious” were killed in separate incidents. In Multan, two peddlers were killed in an alleged encounter, while four suspects were arrested.
Police said the operations targeted individuals linked to long-standing narcotics networks in the region.
Suspects killed across multiple districts
One drug dealer each was reportedly killed in Gujranwala, Jhelum, Kamalia, Lodhran, Khanewal, Gojra, Alipur and Hasilpur during separate CCD operations. In Muridke, another accused died in an alleged shootout with CCD personnel.
In Gojra, a well-known drug dealer named Akbar, wanted in nine cases, was killed on Mongi Bangla Road.
Two drug dealers were killed in Chiniot during separate police encounters, while two others escaped.
CCD officials claimed that notorious drug peddler Nadeem Sindhu was killed by his own accomplices during an exchange of fire. A similar incident occurred in Chak 127, where another dealer was allegedly killed by fellow gang members.
CCD Bahawalpur conducted a major operation in Hasilpur, killing the notorious accused Kamran alias Kami Langra, an active member of a major drug network. Police said Kami Langra, known for supplying narcotics -- particularly “ice” -- to private hostels, was killed during a crossfire.
Officials reiterated that the crackdown will continue “to save the young generation from the scourge of drugs.”
Punjab govt vows continued action
Authorities say the widespread operations reflect Punjab’s determination to dismantle drug networks operating across the province.
Police emphasized that further raids will be carried out to eliminate narcotics trafficking and bring wanted criminals to justice.
