Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has thwarted an attempt to smuggle 28.9 kilograms of cocaine into the Kingdom through Jeddah Islamic Port.

Authority spokesperson Hamoud Al-Harbi said the narcotics were discovered hidden inside a shipment of frozen meat after it underwent customs procedures and was inspected using security screening technology and sniffer dogs.

Al-Harbi stressed that ZATCA will continue to tighten customs controls on imports and exports, and to remain vigilant against drug trafficking attempts as part of its strategy to protect society from harmful substances.

He urged the public to help combat smuggling by reporting suspected cases via the security hotline 1910, email 1910@zatca.gov.sa, or the international number +9661910.

He added that all reports are treated in strict confidence, and informants may be eligible for a financial reward if the information is verified.