Investigators probe riders, female-led groups, ‘links to educational institutions, officials’
KARACHI:
What began as a routine drug investigation has now unfolded into one of Karachi’s biggest alleged drug-trafficking networks, exposing a shadowy web of over 70 suspected dealers operating across the metropolis – with so-called “cocaine queen” Anmol alias Pinky emerging at the center of the storm, sources said on Wednesday.
According to sources, the illegal drug trade through social media platforms, mobile phones and WhatsApp is rapidly expanding across all seven districts of the city, with investigators compiling a comprehensive list of suspected online drug dealers. Sources added that the list was prepared before Pinky’s arrest and also includes her name.
Investigators allege that Pinky ran a large-scale online drug network that operated mainly within the jurisdiction of Darakhshan police station in District South. The list shows that 45 suspected online drug dealers are active in District South alone, while three operate in District City, two in District Malir, five in District West, four in District East, four in District Keamari and seven in District Central.
Sources further stated that women are also allegedly involved in online drug dealing. In Saddar police station limits, a woman identified as Samira alias “Baby” is said to be running a large online drug network, while in the SITE-A area of District Keamari, two women – Lal Jan and Mehrunnisa alias “Bebel” – are also suspected of involvement in drug trafficking.
Sources said the network is not limited to Karachi as people from other provinces are also allegedly involved in supplying drugs like ice, crystal meth and cannabis to educational institutions including schools, colleges and universities.
Investigators have also questioned Pinky regarding alleged links between the drug network and certain police officers. According to sources, a list of 12 police officials allegedly receiving bribes from her has also been prepared and is under review.
Further investigations revealed that Pinky allegedly used a bank account belonging to a man identified as Samir, along with several “benami” accounts, for financial transactions. Around Rs 900,000 was allegedly withdrawn from one of these accounts a few days ago.
Police have also obtained details of 35 riders allegedly linked to the drug supply network. Of these, 10 riders are said to be from Punjab, while 25 are attached to local operations.
