Abu Dhabi Customs foils smuggling attempt of 128.2kg of narcotic poppy seeds

During the night shift, inspectors suspected three passengers of Indian nationality arriving on a flight from India. When subjected to the inspection, 52 bags of narcotic poppy seeds, weighing a total of 52 kg, were found with the first suspect, while the second and third suspects were found to be carrying 35 bags weighing 35.1kg and 41 bags weighing 41.1kg respectively.

Once the inspection process ended, the three accused were referred to the competent authority.

Hamad Al Hurr Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the Department of Finance, praised the vigilance of the customs inspectors at the airport following their hard work to foil this - and all - attempts to smuggle drugs and banned materials.

Commenting on this incident, Saeed Ahmed Al Muhairi, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Customs, commended the efforts made by the customs personnel in protecting the UAE from potential harm, and emphasized the continuous efforts and progress made by the authorities involved in working towards protecting customs borders of any national security threats. He praised the efforts and commitment of the inspectors, who in turn do not hesitate in making great effort to protect their homeland from any danger.

For his part, Saeed Saad Alqahtani, the Customs Director at Abu Dhabi International Airport, said: "I cannot express how grateful we are to the Director General of General Administration of Customs in Abu Dhabi on the tremendous efforts made in terms of developing and raising work efficiencies at all centres in the General Administration of Customs". He also addressed the customs inspectors by saying: "The mission is not easy, but you are the sons of this nation, and we are always proud of your sincere efforts to help our nation."