Dubai: Security agencies in the United Arab Emirates have taken strong action against an international drug trafficking network operating within the country. Led by the UAE National Drug Enforcement Authority (NDEA), extensive inspections conducted across various emirates resulted in the arrest of 20 individuals. Authorities confiscated 200,000 Captagon pills along with more than 30 kilograms of other narcotics. Officials described the operation as one of the most significant recent measures taken against an organized drug trafficking gang with international links. The coordinated inspections focused on the emirates of Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Ajman. Raids conducted simultaneously at multiple locations uncovered large quantities of prohibited narcotics. In addition to the 200,000 Captagon pills seized, the confiscated substances included cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, hashish, and a synthetic cannabinoid known as 'Spice'.
Key confidential intelligence from Iraq was pivotal in identifying the drug trafficking network. The UAE authorities intensified their investigation based on information provided by the General Directorate of Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances Affairs under the Ministry of Interior of Iraq. Investigators received details regarding the trafficking gang's operations, which had connections spanning multiple countries. Officials indicated that the group planned to smuggle large quantities of narcotics into the UAE through border areas in Ras al-Khaimah and then distribute them across various parts of the country.
Upon receiving this classified information, security agencies launched heightened surveillance. After monitoring the suspects' movements and drug distribution activities, a decision was made to conduct simultaneous inspections in multiple emirates. The operation was carried out through joint cooperation of the Police General Commands of Ras al-Khaimah, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman. The Federal Public Prosecution provided legal coordination and support to the proceedings. Authorities highlighted that the exchange of information and meticulous planning among different security departments was decisive in apprehending the suspects.
In the initial phase, numerous individuals directly involved in drug trafficking were detained by security forces. Additional members of the network were arrested during raids conducted across various parts of the country. Of the 20 individuals arrested, the detainees included citizens from Gulf countries, other Arab nations, African countries, and Asian countries. Investigations suggest that the group operated internationally and maintained extensive cross-border connections.
UAE authorities emphasized that uncompromising measures will continue against drug trafficking. They warned that such criminal activities, posing serious threats to national security and public health, will under no circumstances be tolerated. An official statement underscored that those endangering lives and futures through narcotics trade have no place in the UAE and will face stringent legal action. A strong message was sent that ‘dealers of death’ have no refuge in the country. Security agencies further cautioned that all involved in drug trafficking, distribution, or sales activities will be held accountable before the law.
Simultaneously, officials called for strengthened intelligence cooperation between countries to dismantle international drug networks more effectively. They acknowledged that the intelligence from Iraq, along with coordination among UAE security agencies, was crucial to the operation’s success. Authorities also appealed to the public to remain vigilant about the grave societal consequences of drug abuse and smuggling. They urged immediate reporting to relevant security bodies if suspicious narcotics dealings or distribution activities are observed. Public cooperation and timely information sharing are vital in disrupting drug trafficking chains.
This operation reflects the UAE’s firm stance against international drug trafficking syndicates. Moving forward, efforts will continue not only to bolster border security but also to detect and eliminate illegal narcotics distribution networks within the country.
n
Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
