Inspectors from the Sharjah Ports Customs and Free Zones Authority’s (SPCFZA) Khalid Port Customs Centre successfully foiled nine smuggling attempts, seizing an astounding 60.216 kilograms of narcotics and 14,378 narcotic tablets during the first third of 2023.
Using state-of-the-art screening technology, the inspection officers swiftly detected and confiscated the illicit substances upon their arrival. The narcotics were cleverly concealed using various methods, such as hiding them inside refrigerated containers, demonstrating the smugglers’ growing ingenuity in their persistent efforts to smuggle these prohibited items into the country.
The competence and skill of customs officers and inspectors were commended by the authorities, who credited their expertise for the successful confiscations. SPCFZA reiterated its steadfast dedication to utilizing all available resources and enhancing measures to combat illegal smuggling activities, with a particular focus on countering drug smuggling across all customs ports in the emirate of Sharjah.
Sharjah Customs stated that it would continue to support the national strategy aimed at protecting society’s security and welfare, ensuring public safety, and positively contributing to the national economy’s robustness.
The Director of Khalid Port Customs Centre, Salem Abdullah Majid Al Zomor, stated, “The significant attention granted by the SPCFZA to the customs sector, along with the provision of cutting-edge customs detection devices and the adoption of the latest technologies in the customs field, have been pivotal in amplifying the effectiveness of our operations.”
Continuous training, according to Al Zomor, was effective in increasing inspector efficiency. “The year-round training courses have had a tremendous impact on enhancing our customs work and maintaining a high throughput of goods and passengers through the customs ports of the emirate of Sharjah, particularly the Khalid Port.”
He praised the center’s capable officers and inspectors for their unwavering commitment to ensuring security at all times and in all situations, stressing their determination to continue their vigilant role in thwarting any smuggling endeavours through the port. It is important to highlight that the customs inspectors at Khalid Port handle a wide range of shipping categories, encompassing containers, general cargo, refrigerated food and agricultural products, live animals, dry and bulk goods, vehicles, and heavy equipment. Additionally, they oversee the movement of sea passengers arriving or departing through the port.
