In a new security blow that confirms the vigilance of Saudi ports, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority “ZATCA” at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was able to thwart an attempt to smuggle a large quantity of the narcotic substance “amphetamine”, amounting to 38,340 pills, which were hidden in a professional manner inside a postal parcel arriving in the Kingdom.
Details of the operation at King Khalid Airport
The official spokesperson for the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, Hamoud Al-Harbi, explained the details of the incident, noting that the postal package underwent standard customs procedures upon arrival at the airport. Al-Harbi emphasized that the advanced security technologies and live detection methods (police dogs) employed by the Authority contributed to uncovering the narcotic pills concealed within the package, reflecting the efficiency of the monitoring system at air entry points.
Security coordination and arrest of those receiving [the aid/receipt]
The operation did not stop at confiscating the contraband; it extended to dismantling the network involved within the Kingdom. Al-Harbi added that immediately after the customs seizure, direct coordination was established with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control to ensure the arrest of those responsible for the shipment. This joint security cooperation resulted in the arrest of two individuals who were awaiting the delivery of the contraband within the Kingdom, and legal procedures were initiated against them.
The War on Drugs: A National Context and Ongoing Efforts
This operation comes within the context of the "war on drugs" that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is waging resolutely to protect society from the scourge of narcotics. All security and customs sectors are working in complete harmony to cut off smuggling routes, whether through land, sea, or air ports. Attempts to smuggle via postal parcels are one of the methods used by smugglers, but the advanced X-ray inspection systems and the efficiency of the personnel at ZATCA are vigilant against these desperate attempts.
The importance of customs control in protecting national security
The authority emphasized its commitment to tightening control over the Kingdom's imports and exports through all its customs ports. These efforts are a cornerstone of the authority's strategy to enhance security and protect society and the national economy from the serious harm caused by drugs, particularly amphetamine pills, which target young people and negatively impact development.
Call to contribute to combating smuggling
In closing, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority called upon all citizens and residents to contribute to this national effort by reporting any suspected smuggling activities. The Authority outlined the available communication channels, which are fully confidential:
- The number designated for security reports: 1910
- Email: 1910@zatca.gov.sa
- International number: 009661910
The authority confirmed that it receives reports related to smuggling crimes and violations of the unified customs system with complete confidentiality, and offers financial rewards to informants if the information provided is proven to be correct.
