Saudi Authorities Foil 1,165 Attempts to Smuggle Contraband at Kingdom’s Borders in Just One Week
The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority has reported a significant achievement in its ongoing efforts to bolster security and protect society from illegal substances. Over the past week, customs officials at ground, sea, and air entry points successfully intercepted a total of 1,165 prohibited items. This initiative underscores the authority’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community by preventing the influx of banned materials in various forms.
Among the confiscated items, the authority identified 69 different categories of narcotics, including substances such as hashish, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and Captagon pills. Aside from these drugs, authorities also obstructed the entry of 720 items classified as prohibited materials. In addition, customs officials thwarted the importation of 1,775 tobacco products and derivatives, which has become a growing concern globally. Furthermore, the interception extended to 76 monetary items and 18 categories of weapons and their accessories.
The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority emphasized its relentless commitment to maintaining stringent control over the Kingdom’s imports and exports to uphold community security. This mission is reinforced through continuous collaboration and coordination with various relevant stakeholders and entities. By working together, the authority aims to create a robust framework to combat smuggling and related crimes effectively.
In a proactive approach to engage the public in these efforts, the authority has urged citizens and residents to assist in the fight against smuggling. The authority emphasized that collective vigilance is crucial for safeguarding both the community and the national economy. To facilitate reporting suspicious activities, the authority has established dedicated communication channels. Individuals can report any illegal smuggling activities through the designated security hotline at “1910”, via email at 1910@zatca.gov.sa, or through the international contact number “009661910”. Reports made through these channels will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and those providing valid information may be eligible for financial rewards as a token of appreciation.
The proactive measures taken by the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority not only reinforce its role in preserving public health and safety but also contribute to the wider objective of enhancing the nation’s security landscape. This approach reflects a comprehensive understanding of the challenges posed by smuggling and drug trafficking, demands a collective response from the entire society.
This initiative also serves to educate the public on the significance of community participation in law enforcement. By encouraging citizens to stay vigilant and report suspected activities, the authority aims to establish a culture of accountability and proactive involvement in safeguarding the community. Given the pervasive nature of drug-related issues and smuggling activities, such joint efforts are essential in curbing the spread of these societal threats.
In summary, the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority is actively working to enhance national security through rigorous customs enforcement and public cooperation. The interception of prohibited items at various entry points exemplifies the authority’s dedication to combating drug trafficking and smuggling operations. With clear communication channels established for reporting potential violations, the authority emphasizes that community involvement is vital in this ongoing battle. As the efforts to dismantle smuggling networks continue, the collaboration between the authority and the public will play a crucial role in fostering a safe environment for all members of society.
