Chapter 1

Introduction

Drug trafficking is defined differently by various legislation. Nonetheless, most definitions

have similar meanings. Drug trafficking is described as "a global illicit trade involving the
cultivation, manufacture, distribution, and sale of substances subject to drug prohibition laws" by
the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 or
a similar law, "drug trafficking" is defined in the United Kingdom as producing or supplying a
controlled drug, transporting or storing a controlled drug, importing or exporting a controlled drug,
whether in England and Wales or elsewhere. "The Intoxicant Control Act of 1990" states
unequivocally that no intoxicant, other than alcohol, may be grown, produced, refined, transported,
imported, exported, supplied, bought, sold, possessed, preserved, stored, or used. These days, one
of the most important and iconic types of organised crime is the trafficking of illegal
psychoactive substances. Drug markets driven by drug trafficking are most likely the "largest"
illicit market in terms of revenue, notwithstanding the high margins of uncertainty in the figures.
The transnational transportation of illegal items is a component of transnational drug trafficking.
Most of the time, eager buyers and sellers collaborate to achieve their goal .Drug Mafia generally
targets youth who are studying in universities and colleges.

Students encounter new frontiers of freedom as they enter universities: freedom from the
regimented setting of the classroom, freedom from parental supervision, and most importantly, the
freedom to travel, select, and engage in extracurricular and intramural activities at the university
based on their own preferences. But along with the excitement of being free, students may also
experience the social pressures of living alone, not having family support, and adjusting to modern
influences. Parents' expectations for their children to excel academically and in their chosen fields
can be particularly stressful and pressing. Due to academic pressure, students may study all night if
necessary to finish the grade and prevent failing. This is because they have a critical need for time
and effort to attain academic goals. However, some students choose drug use over beneficial
activities like sports or decompression exercise. Without realising the negative effects, students
frequently discover that drugs are utilised as a coping or escape method. Illegal drugs provide a
feasible choice for students who are trying to relieve pressure or stress.

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 This research thesis highlights the drug trafficking routes. It explores intensity of drug
usage in students owing to variety of reasons like peer pressure, study pressure. Moreover, the
study sheds light that youth ultimately suffer from Physical, psychological, and social problems.

Problem statement:

The alarming truth is that drug usage among Pakistan's youth is on the rise. Every year, the
number of drug addicts in Pakistan rises by 50,000 new individuals. The victims are the 25-year-
old college students. Drug trafficking in Pakistan takes place through land, water, and air. Drugs
suppliers specifically target youth in universities and colleges who experience peer pressure
and societal ignorance. According to Becker, most young people typically begin using light
drugs like cigarettes, ketamine, guava, NASWAR, and pan, and then move on to harder drugs
like heroin, opium, cocaine, ice and sheesha, and so forth. Resultantly, the youth suffer
from Physical, psychological, and social problems in their life.

Objective of the study

To investigate drug trafficking routes, and its effects on youth studying in universities and colleges.

Research Questions

First, what is drug trafficking? What are different routes of drug trafficking? What are the
main reasons why young people with education take drugs? How can this serious issue be fixed?
What are some calculated measures that can be taken to control drug trafficking and lower drug use
in Pakistan?

Rationale of the study

This subject was chosen with the intention of raising public awareness regarding drugs,
drug use, and drug trafficking in Pakistan. This focuses more on how these substances affect young
people and how to protect them from them. Furthermore, its justification is to offer
certain recommendations that align with the nation's strategic policy to combat drug use in the
nation.

Methodology

The paradigm of the study was interpretive, qualitative approach was used. The study used a
qualitative research approach that involved in-depth research papers, journals, and articles to obtain
insights into the situation.

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Chapter 2

Literature Review

Contemporary analysis of drug trafficking in Pakistan

According to a 2018 study released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),
opium production in Afghanistan grew by 63% to 328,000 hectares overall. Narcotic smuggling
instances have increased in Pakistan because of this concerning development. Illegal activity,
including drug trafficking, continues despite initiatives like border fence and stepped-up patrols
along the 2,400 km shared border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Contrary to popular
assumption, traffickers in drugs use cunning strategies that let them take advantage of law
enforcement and benefit from the illicit drug trade. These drug dealers raise drug costs by
controlling the market, which enables certain law enforcement officers to make money from
ensuing street sales . Furthermore, the UNODC study names Afghanistan's biggest corridor for
hashish and heroin smuggling as the transit route via Pakistan. In 2018, the UNODC performed a
survey in Afghanistan and found that the country's opium cultivation has decreased by 26%.

But even with this decline, Afghanistan continues to rank as the world's second-largest producer of
illicit narcotics. The trade channels that have been built between Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan
since 2004 are one of the factors that contribute to the ongoing presence of drug trafficking,
particularly the smuggling of opium. These pathways have unintentionally made matters worse by
giving drug dealers a more convenient way to move their illegal commodities. Substances are
transported via the routes passing through Pakistan. Pakistan's strategic location as a transit
country between China and Afghanistan makes it a key hub for drug trafficking activities. Routes
that pass-through Pakistan are used for the transportation of opium and other illegal drugs.

Furthermore, the 'Global Synthetic Drugs Assessment 2020' notes that Pakistan had a notable surge
in methamphetamine seizures from 2016 to 2018. The amount of methamphetamine found
throughout this period has increased dramatically by more than 21 times, according to the
statistics. Atif et al. report that the amount seized rose from around 133 kg in 2016 to 2.9

3
tonnes in 2018. Meth is a synthetic drug that is very addictive and activates the central nervous
system. There are instances when it is called methamphetamine. Seizures have sharply increased,
which suggests that drug usage and availability are rising in Pakistan.

The UNODC study highlights the alarming rise in opium cultivation in Afghanistan, which has
resulted in an increase in drug smuggling into Pakistan. Notwithstanding the steps taken to put an
end to these illegal operations, traffickers use tactics to influence drug pricing and win over certain
law enforcement officials. The report also highlights the fact that the Pakistani transit route is the
primary route taken by heroin and hashish smugglers from Afghanistan. The data illustrates the
severity of the issue by showing a rapid rise in poppy production and cultivation over time. Iran
was one of the nations that claimed in 2018 that a significant portion of the methamphetamine
seizures it had obtained had come from Afghanistan and were allegedly transported there or
through Pakistan to other foreign markets. Afghanistan's methamphetamine seizures increased
significantly in 2019, according to preliminary statistics, from about 9 kg in 2014 to over 1.3
tonnes. Tablets and crystals of methamphetamine have been seized in Afghanistan.

Tablets of methamphetamine typically contain a variety of other substances, including heroin and
MDMA, whereas crystalline methamphetamine is said to be of high purity. Multiple amphetamine
seizures made at international terminals in Pakistan between 2018 and 2019 were destined for
Middle Eastern nations including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. In terms of
weight, however, seizures destined for the Middle East constituted a negligible portion of the total
amount of amphetamine seized by Pakistan.

Drugs abuse and Drug addiction

It's crucial to define the word "drug" first. A drug is defined as "a chemical substance, such
as a narcotic or hallucinogen, that affects the central nervous system, causing changes in behaviour
and often addiction." Narcotizing is the act of giving someone a drug, especially one that is
administered in excess or to stupefy or dull them as if under the influence of a drug. Chemicals in
drugs alter how a person's body functions A drug is a substance that is intentionally taken to
achieve desired effects; some drugs are medical drugs, which are used to treat illnesses, while
others are taken for their pleasurable effects. Drugs may be helpful in the case of medicines

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that may be prescribed by a doctor. Some nonmedical drugs are producing harmful effects
(Patrecia, 2014). Drugs are substances because of their chemical influences alter the natural
working of biological functioning of human body. Drug abuse essentially refers to using illegal
drugs or abusing over the counter or prescription medications for purposes other than those for
which they were intended to be used, such as modifying one's mood. Not only are medications
being used these days to modify people's moods, but non-drug chemicals like solvents that may be
inhaled are also being employed to do so. Drug addiction is a form of complex brain disorder that
causes a person to engage in obsessive, frequently uncontrollable drug usage and cravings. It is
a condition that is mostly caused by the practice of drug misuse.

Drug addiction in Pakistan:

Drug addiction is a complex illness that needs intensive, long-term care, just like any other
chronic ailment. However, it is not a sign of moral failings or a lack of willpower. It may be
difficult for those who battle drug addiction to understand the motivations behind drug usage .Any
country's most important resource for growth and development is its youth. Owing to
inattention, they occasionally engage un criminal activity, such as drug use in educational
settings, which puts progressive youths at a disadvantage. During a news conference in
December 2018, the Pakistani government's Minister of State for Interior declared that over
50% of students in educational institutions located in Islamabad, the country's capital, were
consuming drugs. The Minister also issued an order to combat the drug mafia. The United
Nations Office on Drugs Crime, 2019 (UNODC) has released its World Drug Report 2019,
which further highlights the sharp rise in drug misuse in Pakistan. With around 208 million people
living there, Pakistan is the sixth most populated nation in the world. With 64% of the population
under 29, it is also among the youngest nations in the world. Due to peer pressure, insatiable
curiosity, drug-addicted friends, company, and lifestyles, youth are more susceptible to drug
addiction. While there are no official data on drug addiction in Pakistan, a variety of
estimations point to a concerning rise in the number of addicts over the past few years. According
to a South Asia Strategic Stability Institute assessment submitted to the Senate Standing
Committee on Interior, 53% of kids attending affluent private schools suffer from drug addiction
(Abbasi, 2016). It was also disclosed to the Standing Committee that around seven million
individuals in Pakistan suffer from drug addiction. Drug misuse is more common than

5
terrorism as the cause of almost 700 deaths nationwide each day from complications stemming
from drug abuse.

As previously mentioned, youth make up the bulk of Pakistan's population and will shape
the country's future. Drug addiction among Pakistani university students has significantly
increased. 71.5 percent of drug abusers are under 35 years old, according to a study of social and
demographic characteristics Most students are unaware of the extent of the risks associated
with drug addiction, despite widespread awareness and teaching about these issues. In Pakistan,
an estimated 6.45 million persons between the ages of 15 and 64 used prescription
pharmaceuticals or plant-based, synthetic, or mixed drugs for non-medical purposes in the previous
year, according to a UNODC data from 2013. Almost 50,000 drug addicts accumulate annually in
Pakistan; from 50,000 in 1980 to 8.1 million in 2011, the country is home to a large population of
drug addicts. In Pakistan, between 25 and 44 percent of students reported using alcohol or illegal
drugs, and these prevalence rates are rising. Schools, colleges, and universities in Pakistan are very
concerned about this issue .Drug addiction is not just a problem in Pakistan; many of its
neighbours, including Bangladesh, India, Afghanistan, and Nepal, are also dealing with drug
addiction issues. According to Quigley, most drugs imported into Pakistan come from
Afghanistan, which sources and manufactures at least 75% of the heroin used worldwide. In
addition, about five million Pakistanis who smoke high-grade cannabis are addicted, and over three
million people between the ages of 15 and 64 frequently use heroin. One in twenty adults
worldwide suffers from drug addiction.

Kinds of Drugs used in Pakistan:

In Pakistan, a variety of drug kinds are consumed for instance, Depressant, cocaine etc. In
essence, depressants are pharmacological classes that cause a person to slow down. Although
doctors frequently prescribe these medications to manage anger and anxiety, people who want to
unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life may abuse them. Individuals who experience
insomnia also develop an addiction to these depressants because they aid in promoting sleep.
Moreover, some other drugs can lead to death like cocaine. Cocaine overdose can result in death,
and dependence can have physiological negative effects such as melancholy, lethargy, and
psychosis. In addition, with 2.6 to 5.0 percent of all adults worldwide using cannabis, it is the most

6
widely used illegal substance in the world. Cannabis, commonly referred to as "marijuana" in
popular culture, has long been

recognised for its therapeutic benefits. But because it's a habit-forming drug, users quickly develop
a dependence on it. When used, one experiences altered mood and perceptions as well as
heightened hunger, a faster heartbeat, and lowered blood pressure. The regions of Central and
South Asia are where the plant is primarily grown.

Coupled with it, Narcotics are frequently prescribed as pain relievers. They cause a person's level
of awareness and attentiveness to decrease. Doctors can legally prescribe some narcotic
medications. Some are addicting, though, and illegal. One such drug that is both illegal and
highly addictive is heroin. The second most popular medications in the world, ATSs, are known
to alter the human neurological system, resulting in increased energy, confidence, and intensified
sentiments of love, happiness, and appreciation. Globally, there are between 14 and 52.5 million
ATS users. Quite hand in hand with it, Opioids are among the oldest narcotics in the world,
especially heroine. These substances are psychoactive and bind to both the central and peripheral
neural systems of their users, making them addicted. One of the main causes of drug-related drugs
is the use of this substance.

Pakistan has always been confronted with the threat of illicit opium cultivation. The nation
has unavoidably suffered because of its location in an area that generates 90% of the world's opium.
Due to its popularity as a drug route among narcotics producers, traffickers, and smugglers,
Pakistan has been under threat. An increasing number of drugs, including solvents and
synthetics, are being found to be abused. This is becoming a more serious issue, and it is
undeniable that poppy farming and heroin manufacture have sharply increased in neighbouring
Afghanistan in recent years.As a result, more of these illegal substances are being brought into
Pakistan via land and maritime routes to be traded illegally. It is expected that Pakistan's growing
supply of illegal narcotics will fuel more manufacture of the substances due to increased
consumption, thus entangling the nation in a vicious cycle. In Pakistan, the number of drug users
increases by at least 50,000 each year. An increasing number of the nation's youth are being
affected by this threat.

The following symptoms should be watched for by parents in order to recognise

behavioural changes in their children: sudden and dramatic weight loss, lack of appetite,
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breathing difficulties, fatigue quickly, preference for staying outside the home, frequent demands
for money, happiness in the face of loneliness, prolonged sleep, laziness, pale complexion,
trembling fingers, stomach problems, particularly constipation, lack of interest in daily tasks, red
eyes, slurred speech, and dark circles under the eyes

Fatal consequences of drug addiction

Undertaking drug use without medical supervision carries a few serious health concerns,
including the development of addiction disorders. When drug addiction goes untreated, it raises
morbidity and mortality rates for both individuals and the community. This is because drug
addiction causes lost productivity, higher health care costs, early mortality, and costs related to
social welfare, criminal justice, and community repercussions. The World Health
Organisation (WHO) reports that 35 million people, or 270 million people, or 5.5% of the world's
population between the ages of 15 and 64, used psychoactive drugs in 2022. The most severe
consequences of substance misuse do not even pertain to health. Addiction to drugs can have a few
detrimental effects on a person's emotional or social well-being, including job loss, jail, breakups,
financial difficulties, homelessness, or engaging in hazardous sexual behaviour (Heilig et al.,
2019). While many ailments can be treated to a lesser extent, certain mental or physical
problems are incurable. Seeking professional assistance to reduce drug addiction is an
excellent strategy to minimise long-term harm.

A group from Happy Life Psychological Services (HLPS), Pakistan, has been handling 156
admissions and 6000 triages since 2021. A total of 156 drug-addicted individuals were gathered
between February 2021 and January 2023 to form the study's sample. According to the study's
findings, middle-aged people (67.9%) are the age group most affected by drug addiction, with men
having a higher prevalence of drug addiction (78.8%) than women. Tobacco was the most used
drug (23.41%) among those with drug addiction; anxiety disorders were the most prevalent mental
health issue (28.62%); hepatitis B and C was the most common medical comorbidity (50%); and
they had a higher rate of suicidal thoughts (49.32%). Every year, around 0.5 million deaths are
reported, comprising 350,000 deaths for men and 150,000 deaths for women. In a few wealthy
nations, the trends in mortality have changed due to deaths from opioids. Substance misuse was
linked to the loss of almost 42 million years of healthy life in 2017, accounting for 1.3% of the

8
global illness burden. 11 million people use drugs, 1.4 million have HIV, and 5.6 million
have hepatitis C, according to the figures. There is little information available about drug use in
Pakistan, where 7 million people use drugs, with 4 million of those users being cannabis users and
3 million opioid users.
Addiction to drugs has a devastating effect on the body of the user. Sniffing glue damages
the liver, brain, and lungs. It can also cause anaemia and result in choking or suffocating deaths.
Heroin addiction has the potential to be fatal due to overdose, liver and brain damage, and hepatitis
embolism. The use of marijuana can lead users to take more potent drugs. Short-term memory loss
and decreased motor coordination are further consequences. In a two-group experiment, one group
received a placebo and the other, cannabis. It was found that the group that used marijuana was
unable to remember the phrases from a list that was provided to them. This demonstrates how
marijuana-addicted youth perform significantly worse academically and even struggle with
memorization. Additionally, marijuana distorts judgements, impairing one's capacity for critical
and logical thought. This medication can potentially affect reproduction if taken regularly. Cocaine
can lead to aggressive behaviour, high blood pressure, nausea, and vomiting. These substances all
can change mood because they are all psychoactive substances. Drug misuse causes
melancholy, thoughts of self-harm, and can even push the user to take their own life.
Additionally, using them results in excessive anxiety, anger, restlessness, and a declining sense of
self-worth, which breeds pessimism and a gloomy attitude on life. Drug-addicted mothers are
more likely to give birth to children who have birth defects and neurological illnesses.
Additionally, they may experience extreme dissatisfaction and hypersensitivity. In addition, drug
addiction forces the addict to keep using drugs and causes excruciating withdrawal symptoms.
In Pakistan, drug abuse is not only killing off young people's health but also worsening the
already dire state of the nation's healthcare system.

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Chapter 3

Research Methodology

Research Design

The research methodology refers to the process or approach used to undertake a study.
Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methodologies are the three categories. Because it
deals with laws and sections, the research approach is qualitative in character. Furthermore, no
numerical data is compared to obtain findings. The research methodology is qualitative as a result.
The approach establishes a framework for carrying out the investigation. Additionally, it directs
our research, ensuring that it stays on course and achieves its primary goals. Study, in other
words, becomes methodical. The genuineness, structure, and organisation of the research can be
used to gauge the significance of the approach. Well-researched papers can be published in
reputable, mainstream journals. Additionally, a well formatted research paper can guarantee
reliable data collection and lower the possibility of errors. Most people would benefit from it.

The efficacy and validity of research technique can be guaranteed by guaranteeing and fulfilling the
following guidelines:

1. Defining research questions in a comprehensive manner

2. Directing the research study by setting out some objectives

3. Choosing appropriate and logical method of research

4. Designing a rationalized plan and data collection methods

5. Ensuring that data is collected in a systematic and unbiased in nature.

6. Analysing the obtained data accurately and objectively to aid valuable information to
research study.

7. Interpreting the analysed data to achieve results in a meaningful way.

As a result, research technique is crucial to a study's significance since it guarantees that the study
is properly planned, carried out, and reported, and that its findings can be validated and applied to
decision-making.

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Research Philosophy

The fundamental structure of every research process is its research philosophy, which directs the
researcher and keeps him from being sidetracked. Additionally, it enables him to distinguish useful
information from irrelevant information. It guarantees that he will derive significant conclusions
from the information and discoveries. Research philosophies fall into two groups, which are listed
below.

1. Interpretivism

2. Positivism

Interpretivism takes a deeper look at context and considers human beings to be distinct from
physical phenomena such as gravity, lights, etc. According to this ideology, people create meaning
by making assumptions that differ from those of other people. This is not the same as a physical
occurrence that happens everywhere in the same way. Accordingly, the research philosophy holds
that research investigations in the social sciences should be distinguished from those in the natural
sciences. This considers a few variables related to social science research studies. Alharahsheh et
al. state that social reality is eventually developed and constructed by a variety of factors, such as
culture, circumstances, and societies. A study philosophy known as interpretivism places a strong
emphasis on people's subjective experiences. The foundation of interpretivism is the idea that all
social concepts are created through encounters. Even human common sense is a product of
interactions and observations of his surroundings. This paper uses interpretivism philosophy.

Data collection technique:

When addressing research issues, gathering data is an essential stage in the research process.
Primary and secondary data collecting are the two main techniques used. Primary data
collection techniques include surveys, interviews, and observations, which directly engage
participants. Using data that has already been gathered by other researchers, groups, or agencies is
known as secondary data collection, and it can be done through databases, archives, and literature
reviews, among other techniques. This research thesis uses secondary data collection
techniques.

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Chapter 4 Drug Routes and Drug usage

Routes utilized by drug traffickers.

Drug trafficking:
Drug traffickers are infamous for using a range of creative techniques to carry drugs. It is
customary to use containers transported by land or water as they offer plenty of room for hiding
illicit materials. Automobiles and trucks alike are commonly employed in the transportation of
illegal drugs. Traffickers usually take use of the engine compartment, the cockpit, and the trunk,
among other areas of these cars. The gas canister has also been used to hide illicit drugs in South
Asia. Drug traffickers have been seen hiding drug shipments inside of seemingly innocuous things
to avoid detection.

Concealing drugs has been done with coconuts, fruits, and tin containers. Law enforcement
finds it more difficult to identify illegal drugs during inspections since items act as camouflage .
The only things stopping Southwest Asian drug traffickers from taking advantage of every
chance are their inventiveness and resourcefulness. Drug traffickers profit from the
unstable political environment in the area, the incapacity of regional governments to maintain
effective control both inside and outside their borders, and the possibility of corruption.

Land routes:
The main method of drug smuggling into Pakistan is the transfer of Afghan opiates to
domestic conversion facilities. When it comes to their crop of opium, farmers can either hoard it in
anticipation of increased market prices or pre-sell it to traffickers. To keep its moisture content,
opium gum is usually packed in plastic bags or wrapped in opium poppy leaves. Since plastic
packaging keeps the gum's moisture content longer, it is recommended. The gum doesn't lose any
of its quality even after drying. A common misconception among farmers is that the weight of
their opium determines its worth.

Pre-selling involves the transportation of the opium to conversion labs directly or to key
marketplaces like Landi Kotal, which is close to the Northwest Frontier Province. Transportation is
provided by a variety of means, such as cars, donkeys, mules, and couriers. From Kabul, these
supplies frequently go across the Khyber Pass on major routes to places like Landi Kotal and
Peshawar in Pakistan. There are rocky mountain roads near the Pakistani border that some

12
smugglers use to try to avoid checks along these routes. Smuggled opium is transported from
Afghanistan's production areas to conversion facilities in Pakistan .
The following are the routes used to smuggle heroin, heroin base, and morphine base:

i. The Baluchistan Route: Drugs are carried into Iran by vehicle via Baluchistan in Pakistan. After
then, it is transported to Turkish heroin conversion facilities before being transhipped to Europe
and the US.

ii. Pakistani Tribal Areas Route: Smuggling takes place by road from Pakistan's tribal areas, via
Afghanistan, and straight into Iran. This route is used for transshipment as well as local
consumption.

iii.The Karachi Route: Opium, a common drug, is shipped by train and road to Karachi, a
significant Pakistani metropolis. From there, it is transported by air or boat to Europe and the US,
frequently stopping at transit hubs like Bombay, India, or other African nations.

iv. The route via Islamabad and Lahore: Drugs are smuggled to these cities via road and rail,
from there they are transhipped via Europe to North America.

v. Makran Coast Route: Smuggling occurs to staging locations along Pakistan's Makran Coast via
road and overland routes. From there, the narcotics are transported into Western Europe, Turkey,
and the US via ships that are moored off the coast.

The Transport International Router (TIR) system is one frequently used tactic used by drug
traffickers to hide their operations. According to this international customs agreement, subscriber
nations permit bonded cargo to cross their borders with minimal bureaucratic procedures; the cargo
is sealed at the point of embarkation, and physical inspections are not carried out at intermediate
border crossings. Additionally, buses are frequently used for drug smuggling due to their regular
routes and high passenger volume, which includes both commuting passengers and tourists. Like
trucks, buses pose inspection challenges because of their large number of vehicles on the road.
Previous bus seizures suggest that those who have owned, operated, and ridden in buses have all
participated in taking advantage of this kind of transportation. Illegal substances are also
transported in private vehicles, and the smugglers' inventiveness and wealth are the main limits on
their techniques of concealment. It has been found that drugs are concealed in spare tyres,
specially made reservoirs in car fuel tanks, seats, and interior mouldings.

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 Figure 1 drug trafficking routes in the Region

Sea Route:
Drug traffickers prefer to convey massive quantities of raw materials required in the
production of illegal narcotics by sea. Both Turkey and Pakistan have lengthy coastlines that offer
a variety of ports of entry and departure for marine activities. Up till recently With relatively low
risks and losses, traffickers were able to exploit this manner of shipping due to a lack of
marine interdiction personnel. Drug traffickers can transport significant amounts of raw
materials more affordably by water than by other means. They hide their illegal items amid
legitimate shipments by taking advantage of the oceans' immensity, which makes identification and
interception more challenging. They can create intricate smuggling networks that span several
regions because to the availability of marine channels. When raw ingredients for drugs are shipped
by sea, land-based checkpoints and border checks can be avoided in addition to time and cost
savings.

Smugglers operate in remote or less-frequently patrolled coastal areas to reduce the

14
 likelihood of being intercepted. 15 seizures at seaports or in the neighbourhood were responsible
for 2419 kg of heroin. Through maritime trafficking, criminals may swiftly ship substantial
quantities

of heroin or opium to developing nations. Baluchistan and Sindh provinces are the places from
where opioids trafficked out of Pakistan by water must depart.

Air route
Drug traffickers use air routes for smuggling operations in addition to maritime shipping,
especially when they want to lower risks by hiding drug couriers or packages amongst passengers
and luggage on commercial aircraft. They concentrate on flights from Pakistan's main cities, such
as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, to take advantage of the busier air routes. These
cities are well-connected to the Middle East; further lines to Europe and South and Southeast Asia
may be found via Lahore and Karachi. To reduce the chance of being discovered, air
trafficking mostly depends on many tiny shipments. Traffickers try to avoid detection and boost
the likelihood of a successful delivery by breaking up the illegal goods into smaller pieces. By
using this technique, they may blend in with the actual passengers and luggage, making it
more difficult for law enforcement to find and seize illicit drugs. Determining the most
prominent export channels is a challenging task when analysing seizure data pertaining to drug
trafficking from Pakistan. Seizure reports frequently do not include accurate information about the
anticipated departure places within Pakistan.

These routes make it easier to carry narcotics to many parts of the world, and they may also
be used to distribute them further through already-established criminal networks. Due to the
amount of air travel, the large number of passengers and cargo, and the difficulty of performing
thorough inspections without interfering with ordinary operations, combating air trafficking poses
significant obstacles for law enforcement authorities. In order to prevent the spread of illegal drugs
and ensure the safety and well-being of populations impacted by them, authorities continue to
strengthen security protocols, intelligence sharing, and collaboration with foreign partners.

15
 Figure 2 shows modes of trafficking in Pakistan

To sum up, drug traffickers smuggle drugs into and out of Pakistan using a variety of
techniques and routes. These modes of transportation consist of air, sea, and land. By land,
traffickers use cars with secret compartments or the Transport International Routier (TIR)
system to their advantage, taking advantage of important transportation corridors. They use
several routes, such as those through Baluchistan, Pakistan's tribal territories, Karachi, Islamabad,
Lahore, and the Makran Coast, to carry narcotics. Traffickers may smuggle large amounts of
raw ingredients for the manufacturing of drugs through sea shipping. Pakistan and Turkey have
lengthy coasts that make it simple to access marine channels. Drug shipments are sometimes
hidden amid legal goods. Smugglers take use of the seas' size in order to reduce the
possibility of being intercepted. Air trafficking poses particular difficulties for law enforcement
even if it is not as frequently reported as other forms of trafficking.

On commercial flights, traffickers try to conceal drug couriers or packages among the
passengers and cargo. Access to the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and Europe is
facilitated by major cities including as Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi, and Lahore. Small
shipments are frequently used to lower the chance of discovery. UNODC The enormous and
intricate nature of drug trafficking presents challenges for law enforcement organisations in their
16
efforts to combat it. Notwithstanding, they persist in augmenting security protocols,
intelligence exchange, and

collaboration with global allies to impede drug trafficking networks and avert illicit drugs. To find
and stop drug smuggling, authorities must be on the lookout and take aggressive steps. Through
focusing on these smuggling routes and techniques, law enforcement can lessen the negative
effects of drugs on society and move towards a safer, drug-free future.

Drug Usage by University Students and its effects.

Drug addiction is thought to be the most prevalent public health problem that has a wide-
ranging impact on society. The prevalence of drug addiction has increased dramatically over the
last few years everywhere, particularly in South Asian nations like Pakistan. Human destruction
has spread farther and wider throughout Pakistan, reaching every crevice and corner. The
prevalence of drug addiction is rising daily, which means that there is a large scope to the
problem of drug addiction. A staggering ratio of 156 drug addiction cases was reported even by
the single HLPS platform in Islamabad. It demonstrates the critical importance of addressing drug
addiction-related issues and investigating the underlying factors that raise the risk of drug
addiction. The relationship of university and college life with drug abuse is strong as revealed by
the many research studies. For instance, Saeed et al., highlighted that it is not a recent occurrence,
and a sizable number of drug users are students. This study demonstrates that the bulk of students
in Pakistani educational institutions were drug users. These results are notably different from
the extraordinarily high percentage of prior astronomical drug user allegations on Pakistani
campuses. In Pakistani educational institutions, the youth are vulnerable and employ the
deadliest substances..

Main reasons of Drug abuse

The informants identified several factors that contribute to drug abuse and addiction,

including regular psychological pressure, life disappointment, anxiety, a family-dependent

dynamic, difficulty saying no to offers, curiosity, joy, parental expectations, a lack of appropriate

counselling, and easy access to drugs in educational institutions. The primary factors contributing

to drug misuse are curiosity, peer pressure, and learning pressure. The reasons behind drug usage
17
among educated adolescents include peer pressure, parental expectations that are too high,

inadequate therapy, and the easy access to drugs in school settings.

Figure 3 represents reasons of drug abuse.

Furthermore, there are several reasons why drugs are introduced to students. Nonetheless, the family
and other key socialisation groups—such as the contemporary—play a critical influence. Given
that over one-third of drug-using students find refuge for their drug use in educational
institutions, our research shows that most students view their institutional environment as
favourable for drug use. Numerous research findings suggest that peers have a well-established
influence in influencing kids to take drugs. Furthermore, there is a favourable correlation between
students' drug use and parents' perspectives towards their kids' initial drug exposure.

Varieties of drugs used by young students.

Students use drugs in a variety of ways, and one of the riskiest ways to use drugs in real life
is by injecting them. In our study, inhalation (40%) supplanted oral administration (60%) as the
most widely employed technique. Ignorance of this major public health issue can have disastrous
effects on young people's physical and mental well-being. Since drug users frequently share
syringes and fail to discard them as directed, endangering not only their own lives but also the
lives of those in their immediate vicinity. There are several reasons why drugs are
introduced to students. Nonetheless, the family and other key socialisation groups—such as
the contemporary—play a critical influence. Given that over one-third of drug-using students find

18
refuge for their drug use in educational institutions, our research shows that most students view
their institutional environment as favourable for drug use. Moreover, some other drugs can lead
to death like cocaine. Cocaine overdose can result in death, and dependence can have
physiological negative effects such as melancholy, lethargy, and psychosis. In addition, with
2.6 to 5.0 percent of all adults worldwide using cannabis, it is the most widely used illegal
substance in the world. Cannabis, commonly referred to as "marijuana" in popular culture, has
long been recognised for its therapeutic benefits. But because it's a habit-forming drug, users
quickly develop a dependence on it. When used, one experiences altered mood and perceptions
as well as heightened hunger, a faster heartbeat, and lowered blood pressure. The regions of
Central and South Asia are where the plant is primarily grown.

Numerous research findings suggest that peers have a well-established influence in influencing
kids to take drugs. Furthermore, there is a favourable correlation between students' drug use and
parents' perspectives towards their kids' initial drug exposure.

Figure 4 represents the prevalence of different drugs used in Pakistani universities.

In comparison to other drugs, smoking is the most used drug, as seen in Figure 1. Tobacco ranks
second in terms of frequency of usage (17.27%), followed by cannabis (17.05%), amphetamines
(10.91%), sedatives/sleeping pills (9.55%), alcohol (86.44%), opioids (7.73%), hallucinogens
(4.77%), cocaine (0.45%), and inhalants (0.23%). Comparatively speaking, inhalant and cocaine
usage was surprisingly less common than other forms of drug addiction.

19
Mental health issues in young students

According to the study, drug addicts have histories of personality, depressive, and psychotic
illnesses in addition to anxiety disorders. According to the current research and the body of
literature, anxiety disorder has the greatest rate.

Figure 5 shows prevalence of mental health issues in young people consuming drugs.

Physical health issues in drug addicts

According to the current study, hepatitis B and C is the most common medical condition
among drug addicts, followed by lung cancer, cardiovascular disorders, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B
and C. The results of the most recent WHO research confirm that 5.6 million people globally have
hepatitis C and 1.4 million people have HIV (WHO, 2023). Like Pakistan, which also has physical
health issues that have not previously been documented in previous research, the current study
offered comprehensive details on the issues related to drug addiction.

20
 Figure 6 represents physical health issues among young drug addicts in Pakistan.
Suicidal thoughts and attempts

People who are addicted to drugs experience suicide thoughts, attempts, and self-harming
behaviours. Therefore, to enhance drug users' quality of life, it is necessary to provide them with
the proper management. Only when the organisation keeps accurate records of the data gathered
from the various cases can management be accomplished. It is the duty of clinical
psychologists and higher authorities to work towards improving the lives of those suffering from
drug addiction by offering them suitable treatment plans.

Risks for the society

Students use drugs in a variety of ways, and one of the riskiest ways to use drugs in real life
is by injecting them. In our study, inhalation (40%) supplanted oral administration (60%) as the
most widely employed technique. Ignorance of this major public health issue can have disastrous
effects on young people's physical and mental well-being. Because drug users frequently share
syringes and fail to discard them as directed, endangering not only their own lives but also the
lives of those in their immediate vicinity.

21
 Figure 7 depicts suicidal thoughts among young addicts in Pakistan.

According to Figure 4, 26.03% of drug addicts reported having attempted suicide, 49.32% reported
having suicidal thoughts, and 24.06% reported engaging in self-harming activities.

Prevention of drug usage:

The study's findings about tactics for preventing drug usage in educational settings aligned
with drug use trends found in numerous other studies conducted around the world. For instance,
Ahmed, Nasir Khan, Parveen, Anas Shoaib, Khan, and Amin (2020) discovered that at the
university level, the prevalence of soft drug users—such as hashish, tobacco, and alcohol—was
higher than
that of opium and ecstasy users. The latest study revealed a similar pattern, with alcohol and
tobacco consumption outpacing that of other medicines. Most of the college and university
students, according to a study by Ashiq Abbas and Obaid, utilise narcotics. Global trends suggest
that students generally have a prevalence of drug usage of more than thirty percent on average.
The transitional years between adolescence and adulthood are thought to be a period of great
bodily change and discovery, which increases the risk of developing a drug addiction. At this
point, people attempt to investigate and test out various life possibilities. According to a
University of Pakistan study on drug use, 49% of students began using drugs before the age of 18.
This necessitates giving young people easy access to medications. Remarkably, compared to male
students, the exposure rate for young female students was marginally greater.

The treatments that the informants indicated included educating the public about the dangers of
drugs in educational settings and addressing drug and substance usage in all of them through
guidance and counselling. participation of parents, discipline, suspension, and police
participation are further tactics. Anecdotal evidence suggests that neglecting romantic
relationships, partner deception, inquisitiveness, peer pressure, and domestic issues are common.
Additionally, drug abuse is a result of academic stress. The situations vary in terms of stress level.
One of the main factors is the pressure from friends, family, and teachers to perform well in a
competitive setting

According to findings of the research, having addicted friends seems to be a risk factor for
juvenile addiction because of the idea of pleasure and relaxation. The conventional wisdom about
drug use holds that using drugs is enjoyable. The study's findings demonstrate that to keep up their
behaviour, abdominal users continuously attempt to go with their pals. Teenagers are groupies at
22
heart, and it's usually very simple to become a member of a dependent group. An individual's
likelihood of joining family, school, and society groups increases with decreasing levels of
influence between them. According to study participants, one of the main causes of hashish
addiction is a lack of skills necessary to address the natural, psychological, and social needs of
teenagers. The study also demonstrated severe consequences on physical and mental health,
coupled with it, the study highlighted risk of suicides and attempts. Additionally, it depicted risk
factors for the society. In the last chapter detailed recommendations are provided against evil
of drug abuse among young students.

Chapter 5

LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Aware of the seriousness of the issues surrounding drug usage and illegal drug trafficking,
the government has periodically passed several laws throughout the nation. The Anti-Narcotics
Force, Provincial Police, National Highways & Motorway Police, Pakistan Customs, and the
corresponding Excise and Taxation Departments of the provinces are just a few of the federal and
provincial Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) that have been mandated by law to act against
narcotics drugs within their respective jurisdictions. (The Control of Narcotics Substance Act
1997).

A variety of laws have been passed on occasion to address the usage and trafficking of narcotic
drugs. These include the Control of Narcotics Substances Act of 1997, the Prohibition
(Enforcement of Hadd) Order of 1979, the Customs Act of 1969, and the Dangerous Drugs Act of
1930. Moreover, there are legal penalties for specific actions done while under the influence of
narcotics under the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860, the Motor Vehicles Ordinance, 1965, and the
National Highways Safety Ordinance, 2000. In combination with the Narcotics Control Act of
1997, the Code of Criminal Procedure (Act V of 1898) and the Qanoon-e-Shahadat Order, 1984,
provide procedural law for the arrest, investigation, and trial of criminals as well as for the
procedures for the seizure and arrest of narcotics.

The Control of Narcotics Substance Act, 1997

23
The Control of Narcotics Substance Act, 1997 is the most recent and comprehensive law pertaining
to drugs compared to previous laws. As a result, its provisions supersede any other laws currently
in effect through sections 74 and 76 of the Act, ibid. As a result, the legal framework made
possible by this Act is covered below:

Illicit drug trafficking criminalization

According to section 2, clause (s) of the Control of Narcotics Substance Act, 1997, coca leaf,
cannabis, heroin, opium, poppy straw, and all manufactured narcotics are considered illicit or
narcotic substances. Under the corresponding sections of the section, this legislation has provided
more detailed definitions for these compounds and their derivatives. For example, opium is defined
in clause (t) of the section as "poppy straw," which is to say, all parts of the poppy plant (Papaver
Someniferum or any other species of Papaver) after moving, other than the seeds, and includes the
naturally coagulated juice of poppy capsules that have not undergone any manipulations other than
those required for packing and transportation. This definition also covers any combination,
including one that contains more than 0.2% morphine, with or without natural components of any
of the opium forms mentioned above.2. Opium derivatives have been further specified under the
legislation.

Narcotic plant growing, drug possession, and other related activities are prohibited by the Control
of Narcotics Substance Act, 1997. The Act prohibits the import or export of illegal drugs, as well
as the trafficking, financing, and ownership of such drugs, as well as the operation of facilities
or equipment used in drug manufacture, the acquisition and possession of assets obtained from
drug-related offences, and the addition of abetment or association in drug-related offences under
sections 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, and 14. The Act also specifies penalties for these offences under sections
5, 9, 11, 13, 15, and 16. (The Control of Narcotics Substance Act 1997).

Procedure in the act

The Control of Narcotics Substance Act, 1997 encompasses both procedural and substantive legal
provisions. The relevant parts mentioned above deal with the substantive laws pertaining to
offences involving the trafficking of illicit drugs, whereas sections 20 to 35 of Chapter III of the
Act address procedural issues such as arrests, searches, seizures, undercover operations, and
restricted delivery. The Special Court established under this Act is authorised by Section 20 of
the Act to issue arrest warrants for any anyone it has probable cause to think has committed an act
24
involving the unlawful trafficking of drugs, among other things. This clause gives the Special
Court the authority to issue search warrants at any time of day or night. According to section 21
of the law, police officers not lower than the rank of Sub-Inspector are also authorised to enter any
building, place, or premises for the purpose of search, seizure, and arrest without a warrant if they
have knowledge or information about the presence of a controlled substance for which an offence
is punishable under the Act and that obtaining a warrant for an arrest or search against the suspect
would deny him the opportunity to conceal evidence or aid in his escape. When such a situation
arises, he is authorised to confiscate the narcotic materials and can enter the building, location,
property, or vehicle by breaking down any doors and removing any other barriers to entrance.
Nevertheless, as determined by decisions made by Special Courts, the Act's grant of powers to
police personnel is contingent upon a number

of requirements. In one such instance, the Honourable Court ruled that: getting a search warrant
was the norm for search and seizure procedures, but using extraordinary authority to carry out a
search without a warrant was an exception. Officers must use conscious judgement while
conducting a search or making an arrest without a warrant in order to account for the
offender's potential for escape or for hiding evidence. Section 21, (2) of the Control of
Narcotics Substances Act, 1997 stipulated that an officer must document the reasons for their
information and the proposed course of action before or right away following any action taken
under section 21, (2) of the Act. A copy of this record must be sent to the officer's immediate
superiors. A measure like this was put in place to stop the misuse of extraordinary authority.The
Act also permits regulated and covert distribution activities under Section 24. (The Control of
Narcotics Substance Act 1997).

25
Chapter 6

Conclusion and Recommendations

Conclusion

. The study states that drug trafficking has significantly increased in Pakistan and that this
growth is linked to the expansion of opium growing in Afghanistan's neighbour. Pakistan has
always enforced a strict zero-tolerance stance when it comes to the production of pharmaceuticals.
The main source of narcotics in Pakistan was opium poppies, which were grown and used to make
hashish or charas. In far-off places like Tirah, Khyber, which was reputed to have bad governance,
opium was farmed. Pakistan is now the main entry point for heroin and cannabis smuggling from
Afghanistan, and there has been an increase in methamphetamine trafficking, which suggests that
synthetic drugs are spreading throughout the nation. Trafficking in Pakistan takes place through
land, water and air. Drugs suppliers specifically target youth in universities and colleges who
experience peer pressure and societal ignorance.

Youth drug users are encouraged to consume drugs by older, drug-addicted kids. Addiction
to drugs is becoming more common among students. According to the study, at least once in five
lives, students at Pakistani educational institutions have been exposed to narcotics. The study's
findings disproved popular belief regarding the alarmingly high rate of drug abuse, but this does
not mean that the three to ten percent of regular drug users who attend educational institutions
are ineffective. If ignorance is allowed to continue, it can have disastrous effects on young
people's physical and mental health and contribute to the emergence of new trends. Most students
experience a cascading impact from their current peer networks of drug users, and if prompt and
proper action is not done, those who do not use drugs may become victims of abuse. This supports

26
the findings of the current study, which indicates that adolescents are exposed to drugs,
particularly in their teens. The efficiency of approaches taken by educational institutions to deal
with the issue of drug and substance misuse was also investigated in this study.

Recommendations

 The severity of drug usage should be thoroughly discussed in educational curricula,

emphasising the negative effects on one's physical and mental health as well as the
economy and security. The government must collaborate with various media outlets to
increase public awareness of the negative effects that drugs have on people, society, and the
state.
 Given Pakistan's closeness to Afghanistan, a major heroin producer, border security
measures need to be prioritised above all else. The government must invest more funds in
enhancing border security measures, such as increasing monitoring, sharing information,
and cooperating with neighbouring countries. Increasing airport security and managing
seaports and land will assist law enforcement in more effectively foiling drug trafficking
plans.
 Pakistan should continue to be actively involved in international organisations such as the
United Nations Drug and Crime Organisation. By collaborating with these groups and other
countries, it can bolster its efforts to combat drug trafficking, organised crime, and money
laundering. Drug control initiatives may be significantly improved by incorporating
knowledge, assets, and best practices from other nations.
 The Narcotics Control Division, along with all other departments that prioritise stopping
drug smuggling, require increased funding allocations. It is necessary to
implement a performance-based reward system for seizures and interdictions. A
National Fund for Control of Drug Abuse is now in place under the Control of Narcotics
Substances Act 1997. Property forfeitures and sales proceeds may also be paid into the fund
(Section 54 clauses 2–5). The Narcotics Control Division may utilise this revenue to

27
 expand the number of MATRCs and implement a rewards programme. Now, Sukkur, five
provincial capitals, and five MATRCs are located.

 Effective drug and substance misuse treatment in educational institutions depends greatly
on parental cooperation and educational administration. Reducing alcohol and drug usage
among students can also be achieved through psychoeducation centred on the prevention of
drug and alcohol abuse.
 Additionally, when developing the strategy, it is important to consider the opinions of
impacted families, the media, law enforcement, medical professionals, local communities,
NGOs, and foreign agencies.
 To keep parents, carers, and educators informed about the topic, educational institutions
will regularly host seminars and expert visits.
 Disseminate data and education to communities regarding the prevalence of drug usage
among young people in Pakistan.
 To require all schools to post signs that say, "SAY NO TO DRUGS."
 To develop a campaign engaging cellular providers to deliver the message "Say No to
Drugs" via mobile devices.
 Any play, film, performance, or programme that features smoking or drinking alcohol must
include warning labels and inform viewers of the most terrible effects of doing so.
 Strict tobacco-related laws and regulations should be put into place, and media campaigns
should be started to spread the word to all kids and teenagers.
 Programmes for teachers to receive training in this area. Give educators the instruction and
resources they need to identify illicit drug activity.
 Laws that are implemented and monitored to raise community awareness about
prescription medication abuse.
 Books, ideas, and the creation of drug awareness programmes for academic curricula
across the nation

28
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