Security achievement: Jeddah port customs foils smuggling of 29 kg of cocaine
The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs, represented by Jeddah Islamic Port Customs , achieved a significant security success by thwarting an attempt to smuggle a massive quantity of 29.1 kilograms of cocaine. This contraband was seized thanks to the high vigilance of customs personnel, as it was carefully concealed inside a container arriving in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the port. This achievement reflects the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to protecting its security and society from the threat of drugs.
Details of the security operation at Jeddah port customs
The official spokesperson for the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), Hamoud Al-Harbi, explained the details of this precise seizure. He indicated that during routine customs procedures, a container was inspected using modern security technologies and live detection methods, specifically sniffer dogs, leading to the discovery of this large quantity of cocaine. The smugglers had professionally concealed the narcotics inside the container's air conditioning unit in a desperate attempt to bypass inspection points, but the efficiency of the monitoring systems prevented their success.
The Kingdom's ongoing efforts in combating drug-related scourges
Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has waged a relentless war against drug trafficking gangs, and these efforts are an integral part of its comprehensive national strategy. Over the decades, Saudi Customs has developed its monitoring mechanisms and equipped its land, sea, and air ports with the latest X-ray screening equipment and advanced technologies. This seizure is the latest in a series of successes achieved by Saudi security agencies in thwarting attempts to smuggle millions of narcotic pills and tons of other prohibited substances, confirming their complete readiness to deal with the sophisticated smuggling methods devised by international criminal networks.
Strategic dimensions of protecting society and the economy
The importance of thwarting such operations extends beyond security concerns, encompassing profound social and economic dimensions at both the local and regional levels. Locally, these preemptive strikes contribute to protecting Saudi youth from the clutches of addiction, thus supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant and healthy society. Regionally and internationally, the vigilance of Saudi ports of entry forms a formidable barrier that limits the activities of transnational organized crime networks, thereby reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a global strategic partner in combating illicit drug trafficking.
Integrated security and strict customs control
The official spokesperson affirmed that the General Authority of Customs, through all its customs ports, is vigorously pursuing strict customs control over all imports and exports to the Kingdom. ZATCA stands ready to thwart smuggling attempts, fulfilling one of the key pillars of its strategy: enhancing the security and protection of society. This is achieved through continuous coordination and effective cooperation with its partners in the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, ensuring unified efforts and delivering decisive blows to smuggling networks that target the nation's security.
The role of citizens and residents in supporting national security
In closing, Al-Harbi extended an open invitation to everyone to contribute to combating smuggling to protect society and the national economy. He urged citizens and residents to contact the Authority to report any suspicions via the dedicated security reporting number (1910), by email ([email protected]), or through the international number (009661910). The Authority guarantees that reports related to smuggling crimes and violations of the Unified Customs Law will be received with complete confidentiality, and will offer a substantial financial reward to the informant if the information is proven true, thus reinforcing the principle of community partnership in maintaining security.
