The bikers battling extreme heat and armed conflict to smuggle Iranian fuel to Pakistan
Summary
Bikers in Pakistan's Balochistan province are risking extreme heat and armed conflict to smuggle fuel from Iran due to high local prices and ongoing disruptions in oil supply. The illegal trade has increased recently, with many people relying on it for income despite dangers from heat, fires, and regional violence.Key Facts
- Smugglers carry Iranian fuel in plastic containers on bikes and trucks into Pakistan, mainly in Balochistan province.
- Temperatures in Balochistan can reach 50°C (120°F), which makes the plastic fuel containers prone to swelling and leaking, risking fires or explosions.
- The US-Israeli war with Iran has disrupted oil through the Strait of Hormuz, leading to higher fuel prices and increased smuggling.
- Pakistan's intelligence report estimated about $1 billion worth of fuel is smuggled from Iran into Pakistan annually.
- Smugglers like Mazaar often turn to this work because of limited job options, including farmers affected by drought.
- Fuel smuggling is illegal in Pakistan and punishable by fines, seizure of vehicles, or imprisonment.
- Local oil refineries and industry groups report a rise in fuel smuggling and call for government action.
- Balochistan faces long-standing conflict between Pakistani forces and separatist groups, adding risks for fuel smugglers.
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