Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at Al Haditha port foiled an attempt to smuggle 368,232 amphetamine pills, known as captagon, after the drugs were found hidden inside three trucks arriving in the Kingdom through the crossing.

ZATCA spokesperson Hamoud Al Harbi said the three trucks were carrying shipments listed as “building stone.”

During customs procedures, including inspection using security technologies and live detection methods, officers discovered the pills concealed within the cargo by hiding them in cavities inside the stone.

Al Harbi said that after the seizure, ZATCA coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control to ensure the arrest of the intended recipients inside the Kingdom. Two suspects were arrested.

He said ZATCA continues to tighten customs control at all ports of entry to protect society by preventing smuggling attempts involving narcotics and other prohibited items, in line with its strategy to enhance security and community protection.

Al Harbi urged the public to contribute to anti-smuggling efforts by reporting suspected cases through the authority’s security hotline (1910), email (1910@zatca.gov.sa), or the international number (009661910).

He said reports are handled with complete confidentiality and that financial rewards are provided when information leads to confirmed cases.