In a recent legal development, a reefer container owned by COSCO Shipping Line was officially released after being detained due to its misuse by an exporter allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking. The container’s release was ordered by the Hon’ble Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) Court, which recognized COSCO’s non-involvement in the illegal activity.

Representing COSCO in the legal proceedings, Advocate Rana Asif Khan (High Court) played a pivotal role. His successful advocacy in the ANF Court ensured that the shipping company’s rights were upheld and its reputation protected within the framework of national and international law.

A formal Container Handover and Taking Over Ceremony was held at Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) to mark the resolution. Attendees included representatives of COSCO Shipping Line, ANF officers, and court officials, as well as Advocate Rana Asif Khan.

Equally significant was the role of IRTCoP (International Road Transport Chamber of  Pakistan), which provided essential coordination and oversight throughout the legal and logistical processes. As a major stakeholder in container handling and regulatory compliance, IRTCoP ensured full procedural transparency, facilitating smooth operations between shipping lines, freight forwarders and terminal management. Their collaboration was a key factor in enabling the swift resolution of this complex case.

This event exemplifies the importance of inter-institutional coordination in safeguarding the interests of international logistics operators. The collective efforts of COSCO, ANF, the judiciary, IRTCoP, Rana Asif Khan Advocate and Pakistan Customs reaffirm the strength of Pakistan’s legal and trade governance systems.

In a global shipping industry increasingly vulnerable to exploitation, this case serves as a precedent for how strategic legal support and multi-agency cooperation can uphold justice, compliance, and operational integrity.