RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s counter-narcotics authorities thwarted drug smuggling and dealing attempts, including of hashish, khat, and methamphetamine, in various cities on Thursday.
The General Directorate of Border Guard arrested an Ethiopian citizen for attempting to smuggle 49,350 tablets of unlicensed medical pills in the Red Sea region of Asir, located in southwest Saudi Arabia.
The Border Guard thwarted another smuggling attempt in Asir, which borders Yemen, where they seized 100 kg of hallucinogenic khat leaves, valued at approximately $5,300.
In Jizan, located in the southwest of the Kingdom, authorities arrested a gang of Yemeni nationals for smuggling 5.5 kg of hashish and 30 kg of khat; in another incident, they seized 108 kg of khat.
In Dammam in the eastern region, the General Directorate of Mujahideen arrested a Saudi citizen for selling the toxic methamphetamine drug known locally as Al-Shabu.
Drug smuggling is a serious crime in Saudi Arabia. It is punishable by up to 15 years in prison, along with 50 lashes and a fine for first-time offenders involved in smuggling, consuming or marketing drugs. However, individuals who repeatedly commit this crime may face the death penalty, according to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control.
Security authorities urged the public to report drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.
Reports can also be made to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at [email protected]. All information will remain strictly confidential.
