RIYADH: Saudi authorities have seized 765,000 highly addictive and illegal amphetamine pills hidden in a watermelon shipment in Riyadh.
Five people — two citizens and three Syrians — were arrested in the security operation and have been referred to relevant authorities for further action, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
Saudi Arabia has intensified its crackdown on drug-smuggling networks. The Ministry of Interior and various security agencies continue to target those trying to smuggle drugs into the country.
Recently, authorities carried out a major security operation to thwart the smuggling of about 47 million amphetamine tablets with a street value of up to $1 billion, in what was described as the Kingdom’s biggest drug bust ever.
The pills were hidden in a shipment of flour during a raid on a warehouse in Riyadh. Six Syrians and two Pakistanis were arrested.
The Saudi government has urged anyone with information related to suspected smuggling operations or customs violations to call the confidential hotline 1910, the international number 00 966 114208417, or email [email protected].
Financial rewards are offered for valid tip-offs.
