Dubai Customs intercepts 147kg of narcotics, psychotropics in major smuggling bust
The illicit substances were discovered concealed within the cargo, neutralising a potential security threat before it could enter Dubai
Dubai Customs has foiled a major smuggling attempt, seizing 147.4 kilogrammes of narcotics and psychotropic substances at a strategic seaport, preventing their entry into the emirate, authorities said.
The operation, conducted under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, highlights Dubai Customs’ role in safeguarding national security and combating transnational crime.
Customs inspection teams identified irregularities in a transiting shipment using advanced screening systems, prompting a thorough search.
The illicit substances were discovered concealed within the cargo, neutralising a potential security threat before it could enter Dubai.
With support from enforcement agencies, including the K9 Unit, detection dogs confirmed the presence of narcotics. Authorities have since initiated legal procedures in line with security protocols and regulations.
في إطار جهودها المتواصلة لتعزيز الأمن والتصدي للجرائم العابرة للحدود، وبقدرات مفتشيها من أصحاب الخبرة والكفاءة، نجحت جمارك دبي، التابعة لمؤسسة الموانئ والجمارك والمنطقة الحرة، بإحباط محاولة تهريب 147.4 كيلوجرام من المواد المخدرة والمؤثرات العقلية، عبر أحد المنافذ البحرية… pic.twitter.com/DqUwRutW8f
— PCFC (@pcfc_dubai) March 25, 2025
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, praised the swift action of customs officers. “This successful interception underscores our commitment to national security and the protection of our economy,” he said. “Dubai Customs continues to integrate advanced technologies, skilled personnel, and proactive strategies to secure our borders.”
Dr Abdulla Mohammed Busenad, director-general of Dubai Customs, commended the inspection teams, emphasising their contribution to international security standards. “Dubai Customs’ inspectors set a global benchmark for professionalism and operational excellence. Their role is critical in safeguarding our land, sea, and air borders,” he said.
He added that investment in AI-driven detection systems and continuous training of personnel have significantly enhanced security efforts. “By adopting innovative solutions and developing human capital, we strengthen the UAE’s position as a global leader in customs security.”
Psychoactive substances shipment seized in February
In February, Dubai Customs inspectors, the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 1.2 tonnes of psychoactive substances.
Specialised teams uncovered the shipment as it passed through the emirate’s air cargo terminal, applying meticulous data analysis methods, in addition to detailed scrutiny of the shipment’s contents, and the use of state-of-the-art security technologies.
Using advanced technologies and meticulous inspection processes, Dubai Customs teams identified the prohibited substances within the shipment, confirming their nature as mind-altering substances.
Legal actions were promptly initiated in coordination with the relevant authorities to address the incident in accordance with prevailing laws.
