ABU DHABI: Founded pills were found hidden in the fire extinguisher while five others were hidden inside a metal box in a traveler’s pocket. However this attempt was foiled by Abu Dhabi Customs officials who had the hint of this attempt previously.
Morning shift inspectors at Al Ghuwaifat Customs Centre had some suspicions about a passenger travelling to the UAE by car, which led them to search him and his vehicle.
On scanning the car with detection devices, an abnormal density was found hidden in the fire extinguisher in the car body kit, which encouraged specialists to dismantle the object, leading to the discovery of the 1,570 pills. Additionally, inspectors found five more pills hidden inside a metal box in the traveler’s pocket. The pills were examined and proven to be narcotic pills that can only be consumed with a doctor’s prescription.
He was arrested, the pills were confiscated, a record was issued on the incident and he was transferred to the relevant authorities to take all necessary legal actions.
Commenting on the incident, Mohammed Khadem Al Hameli, acting Director-General of the General Administration of Customs, praised the ongoing cooperation of all security entities operating at Al Ghuwaifat border post and their commitment and efforts to protect their homeland from any potential risks caused by cross border trade.
Al Hameli also highlighted the impact of the General Administration of Customs’ strategy, which ensures that experienced and qualified inspectors are assigned to develop the skills of new employees in reading body language and examining potential banned substance smuggling into the UAE.
Al Hameli said, “The General Administration of Customs continues with its important and vital role in ensuring security, stability and safety in the UAE and among its citizens and residents. Our employees’ role is crucial in protecting the UAE and maintaining its security through its land, sea and air ports.”
Al Hameli commended the support received from the Department of Finance in continuing to develop the capabilities and qualifications of the General Administration of Customs’ employees, in addition to providing the best equipment and techniques for customs inspections according to the highest global standards. Al Hameli also expressed his confidence in the customs inspectors’ ability to protect the nation.
