RIYADH: Saudi authorities have seized millions of amphetamine pills, several kilograms of narcotics and a number of firearms during a series of drug busts across the Kingdom.
The haul of captagon tablets had an estimated street value of approximately between $79 million and $108 million according to research published in the International Addiction Review Journal, which said users pay in the range of $10-$25 a pill.
The pills were hidden inside a shipment of plastic panels through Al-Batha port in the Eastern Province was foiled in coordination with UAE authorities.
Two Syrians and four Saudi citizens were arrested in the Riyadh region and referred to the Public Prosecution.
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 while some find their way into organized crime and terrorism.
In another operation, officers from the General Directorate of Narcotics Control arrested two Indian nationals for attempting to smuggle 126kg of qat.
In Madinah, the GDNC’s agents arrested a Saudi citizen selling cannabis and seized cash found in his possession.
In Al-Baha region, three Saudi citizens were arrested for selling cannabis and amphetamines, with several firearms and ammunition seized.
And in Jazan, border patrol forces foiled an attempt to smuggle 77kg of qat.
Citizens and residents with information on drug smuggling or trafficking should call 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the eastern regions, and 999 in the rest of the country.
They can also contact the GDNC at 995 or email: [email protected]. All reports are treated confidentially.
