Zatka seizes 1,079 cases of customs smuggling: drugs and weapons in one week
As part of ongoing security and monitoring efforts to protect the security and assets of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) announced new qualitative achievements in just one week, as customs teams at various land, sea and air ports were able to seize (1079) various smuggling cases, reflecting the high vigilance and full readiness of the Authority’s staff.
Details of the seized items: drugs, weapons, and contraband
Official statistics released by the Customs Authority revealed that its monitoring operations resulted in the seizure of large quantities of contraband intended to destabilize the security of society and the safety of its members. The list included the seizure of 60 types of highly dangerous narcotics, ranging from hashish, cocaine, and heroin to the deadly methamphetamine (crystal meth), in addition to Captagon pills, which are among the most commonly targeted substances among the region's youth. Besides narcotics, the Authority also seized 512 cases related to other prohibited substances and 14 types of weapons and related equipment, highlighting the vital role of Customs as the first line of defense for national security.
Protecting the national economy and combating cover-ups
Efforts were not limited to criminal security but extended to the economic sphere as well. The Authority thwarted attempts to smuggle 2,036 types of tobacco and its derivatives, which falls under the umbrella of combating tax evasion and protecting the local market from counterfeit or substandard goods. Additionally, 55 cases involving financial transactions were detected as part of the implementation of financial disclosure and anti-money laundering regulations. This strengthens the integrity of the Kingdom's financial system and prevents the exploitation of loopholes for laundering illicit funds.
The context of the war on drugs and smart surveillance
These successive seizures come within the framework of the Kingdom's comprehensive national campaign to combat drugs, where ZATCA works alongside the General Directorate of Narcotics Control and other security agencies to cut off smuggling routes. The agency relies on the latest security technologies in its operations, including X-ray scanning systems, live detection methods (police dogs), and artificial intelligence technologies for risk analysis and targeting suspicious shipments before their arrival. This has increased the efficiency of seizures and reduced the time required to clear legitimate goods.
Call for community participation
In closing, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority reiterated its commitment to strengthening customs control over all imports and exports. The Authority called upon all members of society, citizens and residents alike, to contribute to this national effort by reporting any suspected smuggling activities, assuring them that all information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Reports can be submitted via the dedicated security hotline (1910), email ( 1910@zatca.gov.sa ), or the international number (009661910).
