Saudi authorities have launched a series of coordinated drug-related operations across the Kingdom, resulting in multiple arrests and significant seizures of narcotics, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Monday.
In the Jazan region, Border Guard patrols in the Al-Dayer sector apprehended 11 Ethiopian nationals for attempting to smuggle 288 kilograms of qat. A separate operation in the same area successfully foiled another attempt to smuggle 504 kg of qat.
In the Asir region, patrols arrested four Ethiopians for smuggling 122,550 tablets regulated for medical use. Authorities also confiscated a firearm during the operation. Additionally, in the Al-Raboah area of Asir, six more Ethiopians were arrested for smuggling 225 kg of qat, and another smuggling attempt involving 175 kg of qat was intercepted.
Elsewhere, the General Administration of Mujahideen in the Eastern Province detained a Saudi citizen for allegedly selling hashish. In Makkah, two Saudi citizens were arrested in possession of 2,475 regulated medical tablets.
All suspects have undergone preliminary legal procedures, and the confiscated substances and materials have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation.
Authorities have renewed calls for public vigilance, urging citizens and residents to report any suspected drug smuggling or sales. Reports can be made by dialing 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in all other regions.
