The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has foiled two major smuggling attempts at the Al-Durra and Empty Quarter border crossings, seizing 33,548 Captagon pills and over 21 kilograms of methamphetamine. The contraband was hidden in a vehicle and a truck arriving in the Kingdom.
According to the authority, customs officers at the two ports discovered the smuggled drugs during inspections. The authority’s spokesman, Hamoud Al-Harbi, stated that ZATCA will continue to tighten customs control over imports and exports to combat smuggling attempts.
Captagon Seizure at Al-Durra Crossing
Customs officers at Al-Durra thwarted the first smuggling attempt by discovering 33,548 Captagon pills concealed inside a vehicle’s fuel tank, the authority reported. The pills were found during a routine inspection of the vehicle.
Captagon is a highly addictive amphetamine-type stimulant that is widely abused in the region. The seizure highlights the ongoing efforts by ZATCA to combat the smuggling of Captagon and other illicit substances.
Methamphetamine Seizure at Empty Quarter Crossing
In a separate incident, customs officers at the Empty Quarter crossing intercepted over 21 kilograms of methamphetamine, also known as “shabu,” hidden in a truck entering the Kingdom. The methamphetamine was discovered during a thorough inspection of the truck.
Methamphetamine is a potent and highly addictive stimulant that poses significant risks to public health and safety. The seizure demonstrates ZATCA’s commitment to preventing the entry of illicit substances into the country.
Efforts to Combat Smuggling
ZATCA has emphasized its commitment to enhancing security and protecting society by limiting the entry of narcotics and other banned substances. The authority is working to tighten customs control over imports and exports to prevent smuggling attempts.
According to Al-Harbi, the public can play a crucial role in combating smuggling by reporting suspected violations through the security hotline (1910), via email, or by calling the international number (+9661910). Reports related to smuggling crimes and violations of the Unified Customs Law are handled confidentially, and financial rewards may be granted if the information is verified.
As ZATCA continues to strengthen its efforts to combat smuggling, the next steps will likely involve increased cooperation with other law enforcement agencies and enhancements to its inspection and detection capabilities. The impact of these efforts on the smuggling of Captagon and other illicit substances remains to be seen.
