Abu Dhabi, May 19 — Authorities at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport intercepted a major drug smuggling attempt on Friday, uncovering 89 cocaine capsules concealed inside a passenger’s intestines.
The seized narcotics weighed approximately 1,198 grams and carry an estimated street value of Dh5 million, underscoring the severity of the case and the effectiveness of the airport’s advanced security measures.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICAPC), through its General Directorate of Ports, announced that the operation was conducted after airport customs inspectors grew suspicious of a passenger arriving from a South American country.
Utilizing advanced scanning technology, the customs team detected unusual foreign objects inside the individual’s body, which prompted immediate referral to medical and security authorities.
Following medical intervention, officials extracted the 89 capsules from the passenger’s intestines, thwarting what would have been a significant narcotics shipment into the UAE.
The use of radiological scanning devices capable of detecting drugs concealed within the human body played a crucial role in the success of this operation, highlighting the importance of cutting-edge technology in customs enforcement.
The ICAPC lauded the inspectors for their professionalism and vigilance, emphasizing that such diligence is critical to safeguarding the country from the dangers posed by narcotic substances.
The authority reiterated its commitment to strengthening inspection systems and enhancing national security efforts to deter and prevent smuggling activities that threaten public safety and state security.
This cocaine bust follows closely on the heels of another recent interdiction at the same airport, where customs officials seized 5 kilograms of marijuana concealed in a traveler’s luggage.
That incident also involved the use of advanced screening equipment, which revealed abnormal materials hidden within baggage, prompting a thorough manual search and successful seizure.
Customs officials confirmed that their teams continuously update their knowledge and skills to keep pace with evolving smuggling methods.
Through vigilant monitoring of trafficking routes and active information sharing with domestic and international partners, the UAE customs authority aims to remain ahead of smugglers who constantly seek new techniques to evade detection.
The authority also highlighted its ongoing commitment to training customs inspection personnel. An annual training plan equips inspectors with the latest expertise, enabling them to identify and intercept smuggling attempts more effectively.
This approach reinforces the concept of customs deterrence, creating an environment where illegal trafficking is increasingly difficult to execute.
As drug trafficking remains a global challenge with severe social and security implications, the UAE’s proactive stance and investment in advanced detection technology serve as a strong deterrent against narcotics smuggling.
The successful seizure of cocaine capsules hidden inside a human body reflects not only the risks smugglers take but also the robust measures employed by customs authorities to protect society.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security continues to urge travelers and the public to remain vigilant and support efforts to prevent drug trafficking, reaffirming that the safety and security of the UAE and its residents remain a top priority.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members