DAMASCUS: Syrian Coast Guard forces have arrested members of a people-smuggling network operating in the western town of Tartus, the Syrian Arab News Agency reported on Saturday.
Authorities pounced on the smugglers as they were about to illegally take passengers from the Tartus coast to Cyprus, SANA said, citing a statement from the General Authority of Ports and Customs.
“The operation resulted in the arrest of all those involved, including the organizers of the trip,” the report said, adding that the smugglers’ boat tried to escape as Coast Guard vessels surrounded it, but collided with rocks.
No details were available on how many suspects were arrested and how many passengers were rescued. Criminal charges are being prepared against the arrested suspects, SANA said.
Headquarters of the Syrian General Authority of Ports and Customs in Damascus. (SANA photo)
New restrictions on commercial transit
In a separate move to regulate trade and border security, the ports and customs authority issued a new policy restricting truck access at land crossings and seaports.
Commercial trucks will now be permitted entry for loading or unloading only upon presentation of an original receipt from the ministry of transport’s freight office.
The transfer of cargo between Syrian and non-Syrian vehicles must now take place strictly within designated customs yards at border crossings.
Trucks passing through Syria in transit are allowed, provided they are under a mandatory customs escort between entry and exit points.
