In another security achievement, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at the Al-Batha border crossing thwarted an attempt to smuggle a large quantity of controlled medical pills, totaling 218,280 tablets. The authority reported that the pills were found concealed in a sophisticated and innovative manner within a shipment of paints destined for the Kingdom.
Details of the control process
The official spokesperson for the ZATCA Authority, Hamoud Al-Harbi, explained that the shipment arrived at the Al-Batha border crossing. During routine customs procedures and inspection using advanced security technologies and live detection methods (police dogs), the prohibited pills were found carefully concealed within specially prepared cavities in paint containers, designed to camouflage and deceive customs officers. Al-Harbi emphasized the vigilance of customs personnel and their high level of expertise in uncovering smugglers' constantly evolving methods.
General context: The Kingdom's war on drugs
This operation comes within the context of the comprehensive war being waged by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against the scourge of drugs and drug trafficking, which poses a direct threat to the security of society and the health of its youth. Security and customs authorities, spearheaded by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, are working in close coordination to tighten control over all land, sea, and air entry points. These efforts are an integral part of a broader national strategy aimed at protecting the nation's resources and fortifying society against these destructive scourges.
Strategic importance and impact
Foiling this attempt is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally , it contributes to protecting youth and society from the health, social, and psychological harms resulting from the use of these substances. Regionally , Al-Batha border crossing, being one of the largest land crossings in the Middle East, underscores its vital role as a first line of defense against cross-border smuggling networks, thus enhancing regional security. Internationally , this operation demonstrates the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to international agreements on combating organized crime and drug trafficking, and its active role as a trusted international partner in this field.
A call for community cooperation
Al-Harbi reiterated the ZATCA Authority's commitment to strengthening customs control over the Kingdom's imports and exports, and its vigilance against anyone who attempts to compromise national security. He also called upon all citizens and residents to contribute to anti-smuggling efforts to protect society and the national economy by contacting the Authority through its official channels to report any information related to smuggling crimes. Reports can be made via the dedicated security hotline (1910), email ( [email protected] ), or the international number (00966114208417). He emphasized that the Authority treats all reports with complete confidentiality and offers a financial reward to the informant if the information provided is accurate.
