Dubai Customs foils bid to smuggle opium

Dubai: Dubai Customs has foiled an attempt to smuggle 11.4 kilogrammes of opium into the country through the Cargo Village at Dubai International Airport.

The Custom inspectors suspected a consignment of two cartons containing fabric rolls and curtain accessories coming from an Asian country. When the consignment was passed through X-rays scanner, customs inspectors noticed a dark substance inside it, and had to open one package and examine it manually.

Customs inspectors were surprised at discovering eight pieces of opium inside balls covered by curtain fabrics. Customs mobile laboratory which is fitted with latest narcotics detection equipments was called in to check the pieces.

After tests, the smuggled pieces were found to be opium. The seized transit consignment has been referred to the Anti-Narcotics department at Dubai Police for further action.

Mohammad Mattar Al Merri, Chief Executive of Dubai Customs for Customs Cargo Operations, praised the efforts of customs inspectors. "Such an incident proves once again vigilance and preparedness of customs inspectors who have been trained on latest inspection techniques through attending intensive training courses.