KARACHI: The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has taken steps for prevention of any attempt to smuggle contraband items, said a spokesperson on Monday.

“PIA has taken a stern action to keep its fleet free from any effort of smuggling Narcotics or other contraband items through PIA aircraft,” he said.

The official further went on to say that the initiative was taken in the light of recommendations made by Central Operational Committee formed by Aviation Division that had ordered to thoroughly search all aircraft immediately for any concealed contraband items.

The national flag carrier earlier said that its four aircrafts were planned to be searched today, out of which one aircraft, that was destined to fly to London from Islamabad PK785, was thoroughly checked and 20 kg heroin was recovered.

“The combined search was made by ANF along with PIA security and other agencies. The screening check was conducted well before the flight departure and boarding of passengers. The boarding of passengers was done after the aircraft was cleared and the flight departed after a delay of two hours,” read the statement.

The matter is now under investigation by the concerned agencies, it added.