CHANDIGARH, June 27 —To combat rising incidents of drug trafficking via courier and parcel services, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) convened an awareness meeting to brief courier company representatives and issue preventive guidelines aimed at closing loopholes in the system.
The meeting, attended by DSP (Crime) Dhiraj Kumar, NCB Inspector Amar Shankar, ANTF SHO Inspector Baldev Singh, and several courier service representatives, focused on the growing exploitation of courier networks by narcotics traffickers.
“Drug syndicates are increasingly using parcel and courier services to move illegal substances under the radar,” said Inspector Shankar. “We need joint efforts from enforcement and service providers to tackle this menace.”
During the session, courier firms were directed to strictly implement Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols at all booking counters. Mandatory requirements now include a valid photo ID such as Aadhaar or driving license, along with proof of a local address. For foreign nationals, verified copies of passports and valid VISAs must be submitted.
To ensure accountability in deliveries, OTP verification will now be required at both the time of booking and delivery. Officials stressed that parcels should not be accepted without complete KYC and that items addressed to unverifiable or fake addresses must be rejected.
Special precautions are to be taken for medical shipments. “Booking of medicines and supplements must be supported by a valid prescription issued by a registered medical practitioner,” the officials said.
In a move to enhance security and traceability, all courier booking counters must install CCTV cameras with footage retained for a minimum of 30 days. Companies were also asked to organise regular training and awareness sessions for their staff and strengthen internal monitoring to prevent collusion with drug syndicates.
Courier representatives appreciated the joint effort and acknowledged the urgency of updating operational protocols. The officials said more collaborative meetings will follow to ensure the swift and effective implementation of these guidelines.
