Riyadh: Saudi authorities have stepped up efforts to combat drug trafficking across the Kingdom, making multiple arrests and seizing large quantities of illegal substances, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
In Jazan region’s Al-Dayer sector, Border Guard patrols arrested eight Yemeni nationals attempting to smuggle 240 kg of qat and thwarted additional attempts to bring in 42 kg and 54 kg of hashish. Patrols also intercepted 343,000 medically regulated tablets and 2,000 amphetamine tablets.
In Fifa governorate, two Ethiopians were arrested with 35 kg of qat, while in Al-Raboah, five individuals of Yemeni and Ethiopian nationalities were caught smuggling 100 kg of qat. Authorities also foiled another attempt involving 280 kg of qat.
In Asir region, a Sudanese resident was arrested in Dhahran Al-Janoub with 125 kg of qat, and an Ethiopian was caught with 46 kg in Al-Farsha.
In the Eastern Province, an Indian resident was arrested for selling heroin. Meanwhile, patrols from the General Directorate of Mujahideen in Jazan detained two Ethiopians for selling hashish, amphetamines, and controlled pills.
The General Directorate of Narcotics Control also apprehended four Saudi citizens for possessing 108 kg of hashish and selling regulated tablets, and two Yemenis in Najran for trafficking amphetamines.
Authorities confirmed that initial legal actions have been taken and all seized substances have been handed over to the appropriate agencies.
The public is urged to report drug-related activities by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions. Anonymous tips can also be sent via email to 995@gdnc.gov.sa or by calling 995.
