Pakistan’s rugged Makran coast has transformed into a critical hub for the international trade of crystal methamphetamine. Under the cloak of darkness, wooden boats laden with blue barrels of the illicit substance embark on clandestine journeys towards the Gulf of Oman. This burgeoning maritime drug economy, originating from makeshift labs in Afghanistan and Pakistan’s border regions, has shifted the focus from heroin to meth, a drug prized for its portability and profitability. The “night cargo,” as local fishermen refer to it, is transported by road to coastal depots before being loaded onto dhows, capable of carrying several tons, destined for markets in Dubai and beyond. Authorities in Oman and the UAE have reported increased seizures of meth originating from Pakistan’s coastline, with international maritime forces also intercepting significant quantities. Despite official denials from Pakistan, claiming the boats are ‘stateless,’ evidence points to Balochistan as the consistent launch point. The demand in the Gulf’s recreational markets and East Africa’s smuggling networks ensures a constant flow, with shipments often pre-paid. The Makran coast’s remote coves, sparse population, and limited oversight provide ideal cover, with local economies sometimes benefiting from the illicit trade, while security forces are allegedly complicit or overwhelmed. The proximity of Gwadar Port and its associated free zone, operating under opaque regulations, further raises concerns about its potential role as a cover for illegal cargo transfers. India has bolstered its surveillance efforts in the Indian Ocean, integrating real-time data to map and intercept these drug shipments. For Balochistan, the meth trade exacerbates existing issues, fueling corruption and providing a shadow economy that underpins regional power structures. The persistent flow of these shipments highlights the sophisticated organization of this illicit export industry, operating with apparent state indifference.
