The General Administration of Customs – Abu Dhabi Foils Two Attempts to Smuggle Narcotics Through Al Ghuwaifat Customs Centre

Inspectors from the General Administration of Customs – Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with the Drug Control Department and Police Dogs Section (K9) at the General Headquarters of Abu Dhabi Police, successfully foiled two attempts to smuggle narcotics in a record period of less than 24 hours through Al Ghuwaifat border in Al Dhafra area.

In details of the first incident, the Customs Operations Center received a tip off from the Drug Control Department in Al Dhafra area, according to which an Asian truck driver was suspected of intending to smuggle narcotic substances across the border. Upon arrival at Al Ghuwaifat checkpoint, the truck was transferred for further inspection. In the ensuing search, inspectors found 3.360 kilograms of heroin hidden inside the truck’s cabin within 424 capsules. The driver fled only to be found hiding inside another truck at the UAE border and was arrested in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters and their K9 unit.

In the second incident, occurring during the early hours of the morning and 24 hours after the first seizure, the Anti-Narcotics Department informed inspectors of a person of Arabic nationality, suspected of carrying narcotic substances. Customs inspectors responded by tightened surveillance on the suspect enabling them to seize him, upon his reaching the border in a four-wheel drive vehicle. The suspect was then subject to body search examination, resulting in the discovery of 5,939 captagon narcotic pills taped around his feet.

Accordingly, officials arrested the drivers, seized the drugs and issued customs reports. The suspects and seized items were then transferred to the competent authorities to take the necessary legal measures against them.

Mohamed Khadem Al Hameli, Acting Director-General of the General Administration of Customs – Abu Dhabi praised the role of customs inspectors and their readiness to deal with various cases across sea, land and air ports. Al Hameli also highlighted the importance of cooperation between all relevant authorities and strategic partners, in particular the General Headquarters of Abu Dhabi Police and its different units, to work together in protecting the UAE’s borders from any risks or illegal smuggling attempts.

Al Hameli added: “The General Administration of Customs – Abu Dhabi continues its efforts in maintaining security, protecting our homeland from any risks of illegal trade, and fighting against smuggling and commercial fraud crimes. Abu Dhabi Customs also works closely and in partnership with its strategic partners to facilitate the movement of foreign trade as well as ensure smooth cross border activities and customs services across the Emirate. The Administration also contributes to Abu Dhabi’s vision for sustainable economic development through the collection of customs duties and revenues, in accordance with the highest standards of integrity, creativity and excellence. 

Last July, inspectors from the General Administration of Customs - Abu Dhabi at Al Ghuwaifat Border, in collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Unit at Al Dhafra area, foiled an attempt to smuggle two kilograms of crystal meth (shabu) into the country by an Asian driver.