Karachi: A legal workshop aimed at enhancing maritime law enforcement and interagency collaboration has begun in Karachi. The workshop, part of the ‘Improved National Response against Drugs and Contraband Trafficking in the Maritime Domain (Phase II),’ is funded by the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Pakistan and involves multiple Pakistani law enforcement agencies. These agencies include the Anti-Narcotics Force, Pakistan Customs, Pakistan Coast Guards, and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency. The event spans from August 19 to 23 and was inaugurated by notable figures such as U.S. Deputy Consul General Amy Hood, UNODC Regional Program Coordinator David O’Connell, and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency Commander Zeshan Arif, with a focus on legal strategies to intercept drug trafficking.

According to United Nations Pakistan, Mr. David O’Connell of the UNODC Global Maritime Crime Program emphasized the importance of international cooperation and UNODC’s holistic approach in supporting Pakistan’s efforts to enhance maritime security and manage border effectively. He acknowledged the alignment of these efforts with the government’s goals to reduce drug trafficking and improve the rule of law.

Deputy Consul General Amy Hood discussed the global challenges faced by maritime law enforcement and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to aiding Pakistan in tackling these issues. She praised the organizational efforts of UNODC and expressed appreciation for the dedication of the participating agencies and ministries. Commander Zeshan Arif highlighted the critical challenges posed by narcotics flowing from Afghanistan and appreciated the ongoing support from UNODC and INL in combating maritime drug and contraband trafficking.