During the period from 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2026, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has successfully foiled numerous attempts to smuggle large quantities of narcotic substances and pills across its land, sea, and air customs ports, totaling 1,098 kilograms, in addition to 25,112,378 narcotic and prohibited pills.
ZATCA explained that these security successes achieved by its customs ports come as part of its ongoing efforts to protect community security and public safety. This is achieved by tightening customs control over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s imports and exports, raising readiness across all customs ports, and leveraging advanced security technologies in inspection and examination processes, alongside enhancing the capabilities of its national cadres.
ZATCA pointed out that the smuggling attempts varied in their methods and concealment techniques. These included hiding narcotic substances and pills inside various consignments, such as foodstuffs, equipment, vehicles, and trucks, as well as attempts to smuggle them internally within body cavities.
ZATCA emphasized that the success of its personnel in detecting and thwarting these attempts reflects the high level of vigilance, readiness, and the efficiency of human and technical capabilities used in control and inspection operations. It noted that enhancing the security aspect represents one of its top strategic priorities, given that narcotics and prohibited substances pose a direct threat to community security and safety.
Furthermore, ZATCA affirmed its commitment to continuously enhancing the capabilities of its customs ports with advanced security technologies and implementing specialized training programs for its personnel to develop their skills in dealing with evolving smuggling methods. This comes as part of the integration of efforts and continuous coordination with its partners among relevant entities at the Ministry of Interior and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC).
ZATCA reiterated its dedication to continuing its efforts to protect society from drugs and illicit materials, and to tightening customs control across all customs ports, thereby contributing to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s security and safeguarding its resources.
ZATCA urged the public to contribute to combating smuggling by reporting any information related to smuggling crimes and violations of the Unified Customs Law via the designated security hotline (1910), by email at (1910@zatca.gov.sa), or through the international number (+9661910). ZATCA confirmed that all reports are handled with strict confidentiality, and informants may be eligible for a financial reward if the report’s information proves to be accurate.