RIYADH: Saudi authorities announced that they have foiled attempts to smuggle large quantities of amphetamine pills, methamphetamine and heroin into the Kingdom, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Capt. Mohammed bin Khaled Al-Najidi, spokesperson for the General Directorate for Narcotics Control, said security officials monitoring activities of criminal networks “thwarted the attempts to smuggle and distribute (the) drugs” in two separate operations.
The spokesperson said that officers broke up a criminal cell in the capital, Riyadh, and arrested its members, including a Saudi citizen and a foreign resident. More than 4.4 million amphetamine tablets were found hidden inside a mango shipment.
In another operation, three residents were arrested in the Eastern Province and 10.68 kg of methamphetamine and five kg of heroin were seized.
Al-Najidi said that legal action has been taken against the five individuals who were arrested.
Saudi authorities thwart amphetamine, heroin smuggling rings
https://arab.news/vqhmj
Saudi authorities thwart amphetamine, heroin smuggling rings
- Officials seized the drugs in two separate operations
- Over 4.4m amphetamine pills, more than 10kg methamphetamine, 5kg of heroin were seized
Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage
- Festival now established as a premier annual event
AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.
The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.
FASTFACT
In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.
In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.
The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.
This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship.
As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.
The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.
The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.
