RIYADH: Saudi authorities seized a massive multimillion dollar haul of Captagon tablets during routine customs check on Monday.
The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority operating at the Jeddah Islamic Port found the 1.3 million tablets concealed in holes carved into wooden planks during a routine check.
The drugs haul had an estimated street value of approximately between $13 million and $32 million according to research published in the International Addiction Review Journal, which said users pay in the range of $10-$25 a pill.
Amphetamines are largely used by young men and teenaged boys across the Middle East, and the money raised through the sale of all narcotics are usually ploughed back into the drug trade although some find their way into organized crime and terrorism.
The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authorities said it would continue to monitor imports and exports in the Kingdom, while strictly imposing security to ensure the safety of the community.
The authorities also called on the public to help with the war on drugs to protect the community and the local economy by reporting any violations to the dedicated phone number (1910) or by email (zatca.gov.sa@1910) or through the international number (00966114208417).
Through these channels, the authority can receive any leads on smuggling cases or violations. Any calls or emails remain completely anonymous and if claims are true monetary prizes are awarded to those who report.
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