In a new security achievement reflecting the vigilance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's regulatory bodies, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) revealed the results of its field efforts during the past week, with land, sea, and air customs ports recording (1145) seizures of prohibited items. These intensive operations come within the framework of the comprehensive strategy adopted by the Authority to tighten control over imports and exports and enhance security to protect society and the national economy.
Details of the seizures: Variety in smuggling methods and customs vigilance
Official statistics released by the authority revealed the diverse nature of the seized items, indicating the multitude of methods employed by smugglers and their desperate attempts to breach customs barriers. Narcotics topped the list with the seizure of 133 different types, including highly dangerous substances such as hashish, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, in addition to quantities of Captagon pills. Efforts were not limited to narcotics alone, however, extending to the seizure of 632 other prohibited substances banned from entering the Kingdom.
In a related context, customs officials successfully thwarted attempts to smuggle 2,121 units of tobacco and its derivatives, reflecting the agency's crucial role in combating tax evasion and protecting public health. The seizures also encompassed financial and security aspects, with the detection of seven cases involving financial transactions (declaration or smuggling), in addition to the confiscation of six types of weapons and related equipment, underscoring the comprehensiveness of customs oversight in addressing all types of threats.
National context: The war on drugs and protecting gains
These figures cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader context of the Kingdom, where the state, across all its sectors, is waging a fierce war against the scourge of drugs. ZATCA plays a pivotal role as the first line of defense at entry points, complementing the efforts of the Ministry of Interior and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control. These seizures are a practical manifestation of the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which focuses on creating a vibrant and safe society, free from the ills that target the minds of young people and the nation's resources.
The economic and security impact of the seizure operations
The importance of these seizures extends beyond direct security concerns to encompass crucial economic and social dimensions. Economically, preventing the entry of prohibited substances and smuggled tobacco helps protect the local market, ensures fair competition, and boosts public revenues. Socially, preventing these drugs and weapons from entering the Kingdom directly contributes to reducing crime rates and protecting families and society from disintegration.
Call for community participation
ZATCA concluded its statement by affirming its continued commitment to strengthening customs controls in cooperation with its partners. It reiterated its call for citizens and residents to contribute to this national effort by reporting any suspected smuggling activities. The authority has established secure and confidential communication channels, including the unified security reporting number (1910), email ( 1910@zatca.gov.sa ), and the international number (009661910), emphasizing that financial rewards will be offered to informants whose information is accurate, while guaranteeing the complete confidentiality of their identities.
