A combo image shows marijuana vacuum-sealed in plastic bags in Dubai.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Dubai Customs has successfully uncovered a sophisticated marijuana smuggling operation, demonstrating its advanced capabilities both locally and globally in detecting illicit substances and countering smuggling attempts.

This breakthrough aligns with Dubai Customs’ strategic aim to lead the world in secure customs operations.

The smuggling technique, employed by travellers from the same Asian country over several periods, was meticulously unraveled by inspectors.

The marijuana was found packed in compressed, vacuum-sealed plastic bags to mask the odor and consolidate the substance, enabling the transport of large quantities in compact spaces.

The drugs were then cleverly concealed within cardboard and plastic food product boxes of well-known brands to avoid suspicion.

This method led to the interception of 13 smuggling attempts, involving a total of 54 kilograms of marijuana.

Ibrahim Al-Kamali, Director of Passenger Operations at Dubai Customs, confirmed that the department’s officers possess the expertise and vigilance necessary to detect and analyze sophisticated smuggling techniques. Through thorough analysis, large quantities of marijuana transported by travellers at various times were intercepted and prevented from entering the country.

Al-Kamali highlighted that smugglers had employed a transit strategy from a Gulf country to mislead authorities. He emphasized Dubai Customs’ commitment to facilitating trade and ensuring smooth traveler movement while rigorously combating prohibited, counterfeit, and restricted materials to safeguard the community and economy.

Al-Kamali further noted, "In recent years, there has been significant evolution in drug smuggling tactics and concealment methods, with a marked increase in such operations. Consequently, Dubai Customs continuously trains its inspectors in various smuggling techniques and detection methods, including body language analysis to identify smugglers. The department also equips its customs centers with the latest, most advanced inspection technologies for detecting illicit substances."

Khaled Ahmed, Senior Manager of Passenger Operations at Terminal 1, added, "We take pride in the ability of Dubai Customs officers to analyze and detect the ever-evolving criminal methods used by drug traffickers. Dubai Customs places the highest priority on this mission due to the increasing risks, fulfilling its national duty and acknowledging the severe harm drugs pose to individual and community safety and health. The department maintains full cooperation with strategic security partners to thwart any drug smuggling attempts, supporting the objectives of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council and ongoing efforts to enhance the emirate’s security capabilities at its border points.