Poppy seed transportation and sales are prohibited across Balochistan.

Poppy seeds, or khashkhash, are prohibited throughout the province by the Balochistani government.

With immediate effect, the limitation applies to the sale, purchase, transfer, and ownership of the seeds in all their forms. The provincial Interior Department verified the ban under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in a notification.

According to officials, the action was taken because of concerns that poppy seeds would promote the unlawful growth of opium, a prohibited drug. Such acts are a serious threat to public safety and could contribute to the spread of drug usage in society, the letter made clear. Unrestricted distribution of poppy seeds may indirectly aid the growth of drug networks, the police complained.

The limitation will be in effect until additional directives, the administration stated. Officials did not provide a review or relaxation schedule, despite the fact that the measure is immediate and comprehensive. For the time being, the emphasis is still on stopping any actions that might support the province’s drug trade.

The Interior Department emphasized that any disobedience of the order will be met with severe consequences. To demonstrate a firm stance against the spread of substances associated with drug production, law enforcement officials throughout Balochistan have been directed to ensure complete adherence to the prohibition.