Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority thwarted four smuggling attempts at King Abdulaziz Port and Al-Wadiah Border Crossing, seizing a total of 483,585 Pregabalin pills and 37,368 Xanax pills, both classified as controlled substances.

The contraband was concealed in shipments and the luggage of two travelers arriving in the Kingdom.

According to the authority, the first attempt at King Abdulaziz Port involved 210,000 Pregabalin pills hidden in an incoming shipment.

A second attempt at the same port saw officers intercepting an additional 273,585 Pregabalin pills in another shipment.

At the Al-Wadiah Border Crossing, authorities uncovered 28,578 Xanax pills in the luggage of a traveler, while another 8,790 pills were found in a similar manner in a separate case.

Following the seizures, the authority coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, leading to the arrest of six individuals inside the Kingdom linked to the smuggling operations.

The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority reaffirmed its commitment to strict customs enforcement to safeguard the country from illicit trafficking, emphasizing its strategy of enhancing security and protecting society by cracking down on smuggling attempts.

Authorities urged the public to contribute to anti-smuggling efforts by reporting suspicious activities through the dedicated hotline. Reports are handled with full confidentiality, and informants may receive financial rewards for credible tips.