Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi has declared an uncompromising stance against smuggling, asserting that “illegal transportation of goods from Pakistan will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Monday.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the induction of two new patrol boats into the Pakistan Coast Guards (PCG) fleet in Karachi, Mohsin Naqvi said smuggling is detrimental to national economic progress and security, and the state will utilise every available resource to counter it.
“Pakistan Coast Guards are playing a crucial frontline role in the war against drug trafficking, and their performance deserves high praise,” he stated. “We are committed to strengthening PCG to safeguard our coastal borders against narcotics and illegal trade.”
Naqvi emphasised that the federal government is taking concrete steps to reinforce maritime law enforcement, especially in coastal regions where drug and goods smuggling threaten national stability.
He assured the PCG of full support from the Interior Ministry, saying the two newly inducted vessels will further enhance their operational capabilities at sea.
--Role of PCG--
The Pakistan Coast Guards (PCG) is a rare blend of sea- and land-based troops serving under one command. It has on its inventory vessels and marine equipment besides the means to operate on land surface.
This unique combination lends the force capacity and capability of conducting operations on land as well as in the sea.
This exceptional union differentiates PCG from other security forces and law enforcement agencies deployed or operating along the coast, either on the land or in the sea.
The 1973 Act defines the mandate of this force: “Whereas it is expedient to provide for the constitution and regulation of PCG and for special measures to effectively check smuggling of any kind across the frontiers of Pakistan in the coastal area of the Arabian Sea and also to deal with persons acting in a manner prejudicial to the defence and security of Pakistan in that area.”