The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority at the Al-Batha border crossing successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 6,514,674 Captagon pills into Saudi Arabia.
The pills were discovered concealed within a shipment arriving through the border.
According to the authority, the shipment, described as large tires, was transported on a truck entering the kingdom.
During the customs inspection, which included advanced security technologies and live detection tools, the large quantity of pills was found hidden inside the hollow spaces of the tires.
Following the seizure, coordination with the General Directorate for Narcotics Control led to the arrest of four individuals within the kingdom who were set to receive the illicit goods.
The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority emphasized its commitment to stringent customs controls on all imports and exports, ensuring the prevention of smuggling activities.
This effort aligns with the authority’s strategic goal of enhancing community security and protection by curbing the smuggling of harmful substances and other prohibited items.
The authority also called on the public to assist in combating smuggling to safeguard the community and national economy.
Saudi Arabia has been increasingly vigilant in its efforts to combat the smuggling of narcotics, particularly Captagon, which has seen a surge in illicit trade across the Middle East.
Captagon, a potent amphetamine, is a major concern due to its widespread abuse and the role it plays in financing organized crime and militant groups.
The kingdom’s strategic location makes it a critical transit and destination point for smuggling networks. Consequently, Saudi customs authorities have ramped up their use of advanced detection technologies and coordinated international efforts to intercept illegal shipments.
This latest seizure at Al-Batha is part of ongoing operations to strengthen border security and dismantle smuggling rings.
