Oman: Woman arrested for trying to smuggle 12.6kg of marijuana

Narcotics found concealed inside personal bag, prompting an investigation

Last updated: August 21, 2025 | 09:49

1 MIN READ

Customs officials at Oman airport have uncovered narcotics tightly concealed inside a passenger’s personal bag during routine screening.

Shutterstock

Dubai: Omani authorities have arrested a Chinese woman at Muscat International Airport after discovering she was attempting to smuggle 12.66 kilograms of marijuana into the Sultanate, Customs officials said.

Customs officials at the airport uncovered the narcotics tightly concealed inside the passenger’s personal bag during routine screening, Oman Customs said in a statement. “Muscat International Airport Customs successfully thwarted a Chinese passenger’s attempt to smuggle 12.66 kilograms of marijuana, which was hidden carefully in her personal belongings,” the statement read.

The passenger was immediately detained, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, highlighting the Sultanate’s strict enforcement of drug laws. Oman Customs stressed that the seizure demonstrates their ongoing commitment to preventing illicit trafficking at entry points across the country.

Khitam Al Amir

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox