ISLAMABAD- Two helicopters belonging to the Anti-Narcotics Force ANF have been rusting for the past five years. The cost of repairing them is approximately $5 million, but the current financial situation of the Pakistani government does not allow for such an expenditure. ANF sources revealed that the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency supplied three MI-8 Sitara helicopters to Pakistan. One of them was destroyed in an accident ten years ago, and the remaining two have been damaged since 2017.
The ANF contacted the British government requesting repair assistance, but the response was that they could provide the helicopters but can’t taking responsibility for repairs. Despite reaching out to several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Kuwait, and the American Drug Enforcement Agency, for assistance, none were willing to repair the helicopters.
The combined value of both helicopters is $34 million, and if left in their current condition, they might have to be auctioned as scrap. These helicopters were crucial for conducting surveys and operations in Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and their fault has impacted the ANF’s performance. Reports indicate that a former senator and drug smuggler from Khyber Agency offered a $1 million donation for the repair, but the ANF couldn’t convince the smuggler. The breakdown of the helicopters is attributed to the ANF lacking personnel for maintenance. In contrast, the Federal Ministry of Interior, with one helicopter, has a dedicated maintenance wing, ensuring optimal functionality.
Currently, the ANF’s only option is either to hand over the helicopters to the Pakistan Army or Air Force for repair and use, or they risk the deteriorating helicopters becoming worthless over time. Attempts to contact the Director General and Deputy Director General of the ANF regarding this matter have been unsuccessful.