UAE customs foils Dh5 million cocaine smuggling attempt
Traveller carried drugs in intestines after arriving from South America
ABU DHABI: A major drug smuggling attempt was foiled last week at Zayed International Airport, highlighting the vigilance of UAE border authorities.
The General Directorate of Ports, under the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, intercepted a passenger carrying 89 cocaine capsules hidden inside his intestines.
The seized drugs weighed around 1,198 grams and had an estimated market value of Dh5 million.
The traveller had arrived from a South American country. Customs inspection officers grew suspicious of his behaviour and subjected him to advanced screening procedures. Imaging equipment detected unusual shapes inside his body, prompting immediate referral to the concerned authorities.
Further medical examination led to the extraction of the capsules, revealing the attempt to smuggle cocaine internally. The operation was carried out with precision by the relevant teams without delay.
The Authority commended its inspectors for their swift response and reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing inspection capabilities.