The Zakat Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at the Jeddah Islamic Port Customs has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle 58.6 kilograms of methamphetamine known as shabu, which were found hidden inside a shipment entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the port.
Hamoud Al Harbi, the official spokesperson for ZATCA, stated that a shipment containing men's shoes arrived through Jeddah Islamic Port. During the customs procedures and inspection, using security technologies and K9, the narcotic substance was discovered concealed in the cavities of the shoes.
Al Harbi added that following the seizure, ZATCA coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control to ensure the arrest of the intended recipients of the contraband. Consequently, three individuals scheduled to receive the shipment inside the Kingdom were successfully apprehended. Al Harbi emphasized that ZATCA remains committed, across all its customs ports, to tightening customs control over the Kingdom's imports and exports.
He stressed that ZATCA stands vigilant against smuggling attempts, in coordination and cooperation with its partners, the Ministry of Interior and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, to fulfill its strategic pillar of enhancing community security and protection by curbing the trafficking of such toxins and other prohibited goods.
Al Harbi urged the public to contribute to combating smuggling in order to safeguard society and the national economy. Reports can be submitted confidentially via the designated security hotline (1910), by email at (1910@zatca.gov.sa), or through the international number (+9661910). Informants may be eligible for a financial reward if the report's information proves to be accurate.