Smuggling attempt of 4.7 million Captagon pills foiled at Jeddah Islamic Port
In a qualitative operation reflecting the vigilance of the security and customs authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority “ZATCA” at Jeddah Islamic Port was able to thwart an attempt to smuggle a huge quantity of amphetamine pills (Captagon), amounting to 4,793,000 pills, which were professionally hidden inside a shipment arriving in the Kingdom.
Details of the process and the techniques used
The official spokesperson for the authority, Hamoud Al-Harbi, revealed details of the seizure, explaining that the shipment was declared as a shipment of "charcoal." During thorough customs procedures, and using the latest security technologies in radiation scanning, in addition to employing live detection methods (police dogs), large quantities of narcotic pills were discovered concealed inside the charcoal bags for the purpose of disguise.
Al-Harbi pointed out that as soon as the contraband was seized, joint security cooperation protocols were activated with the General Directorate of Drug Control, which resulted in identifying the recipient of the shipment inside the Kingdom and arresting him, so that legal procedures could be taken against him.
General context: The war on drugs
This operation comes within the framework of the comprehensive and ongoing security campaign launched by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the banner of the “War on Drugs.” In recent years, the Kingdom has faced increasing challenges related to attempts to flood the region with Captagon pills, which are among the most dangerous psychoactive substances. Security and customs authorities are working in complete harmony to thwart these systematic attacks targeting the security of the nation and the safety of its citizens. Saudi ports of entry have recently witnessed a series of preemptive strikes against international smuggling networks.
Strategic importance and protection of the economy and society
This achievement is particularly significant given the status of Jeddah Islamic Port as one of the region's most important trade arteries. Tightening control over this vital port not only protects Saudi society from the scourge of drugs but also enhances the Kingdom's reputation as a safe and reliable business environment, thus supporting the national economy and safeguarding human capital, especially young people, from the dangers of addiction and its devastating social and health consequences.
Call for community contribution
The ZATCA Authority reiterated its commitment to intensifying customs controls on all imports and exports, urging all citizens and residents to contribute to this national effort by reporting any suspected smuggling. The Authority receives reports with complete confidentiality via the hotline (1910), email ( [email protected] ), or the international number (009661910), and offers substantial financial rewards to informants whose information is accurate.
