F.P. Report
LAHORE: In a landmark move, Punjab has become the first province in Pakistan to formally establish a dedicated Counter Narcotics Force (CNF), marking a new chapter in the country’s fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
The force was officially launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif during a passing-out parade held to induct the first batch of officers.
This new force is part of a broader reform drive under the 18th Constitutional Amendment, which granted provinces the mandate to form specialised enforcement units. With this initiative, Punjab has now established five specialised forces, including the Wildlife Force, Environment Force, Forest and PERA Force, and now the Counter Narcotics Force, setting a precedent for other provinces to follow.
“This is not just a structural step, it’s a moral and societal commitment,” said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as she reviewed the formation.
During the ceremony, she handed over the official flag to the CNF and oversaw the oath-taking by officers and personnel. A formal salute was also presented by the newly inducted force.
The CNF has made 866 recruitments and established directorates in each of Punjab’s divisions, ensuring a province-wide operational reach. Officials say the new force has been trained to conduct professional, intelligence-led, and high-impact operations to curb the growing menace of narcotics.
