Customs foil attempt to smuggle 58.6 kg of meth hidden in shoes at Jeddah port

According to the Saudi Gazette, customs authorities at the Jeddah Islamic Port have successfully intercepted a significant smuggling attempt involving 58.6 kilograms of methamphetamine. The illicit shipment, locally referred to as shabu, was discovered concealed within the cavities of a large consignment of men's shoes arriving at the port.

Hammoud Al-Harbi, spokesperson for the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), confirmed that the seizure was the result of rigorous inspection protocols. Customs officers utilized advanced security technologies and specialized detection methods to identify the narcotics after the shipment had undergone initial processing. Following the discovery, ZATCA officials coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control to track the shipment to its intended recipients.

This operation resulted in the arrest of three individuals suspected of involvement in the smuggling attempt. The ZATCA has emphasized that it continues to strengthen customs controls across all Saudi ports of entry to prevent the trafficking of illegal substances. These efforts are part of a broader national strategy to enhance border security and protect public health and safety within the Kingdom.