Smuggling Network Dismantled After Seizure of Dangerous Drug Shipment on Red Sea Island

Anti-smuggling forces in Red Sea State have foiled one of the largest drug trafficking operations targeting the country’s coastline, following a specialized operation that led to the seizure of more than half a tonne of narcotics and the arrest of 11 suspects, including foreign nationals.

The seizure included 493 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (“ice”) and 100 kilograms of heroin, in addition to quantities of the drug known as “kifayeen” and compound ice. The forces arrested seven suspects at a landing area south of the state before carrying out a successful raid on an island in the Red Sea, during which four foreign suspects believed to be part of the criminal network were apprehended.

The operation was conducted following close coordination and precise intelligence, in cooperation with the National Intelligence and Security Service.

The Wali of Red Sea State described the seizure as “historic,” affirming that the quantity of heroin confiscated ranks among the largest ever recorded in the state’s history.