On 25 April 2015, Customs inspectors at Dubai International Airport’s (DXB) Terminal 3 foiled an attempt to smuggle in 9.2 kg of pure heroin concealed in the lining of a passenger’s bag.
“It all started when Dubai Customs inspectors were informed of the presence of an unclaimed bag at Terminal 3,” said Mr. Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahej, Director of Passenger Operations at Dubai Customs. X-ray screening of the luggage revealed the presence of an abnormal mass at the bottom of the bag. After carrying out an on-the-spot laboratory test using a mobile laboratory facility, the substance was confirmed to be heroin. The opening of the bag revealed the presence of 9.2 kg of heroin and led to additional charges against the suspect, who was already under arrest.
According to Mr. Ahmed bin Lahej, “… Dubai Customs officers are always vigilant and fully equipped with state-of-the-art technologies to deter any attempts to jeopardize the security of our society. Meanwhile, Dubai Customs adopts the world’s best practices in terms of joint coordination, intelligence and information exchange, besides maintaining strong ties with all operating entities at Dubai International Airport.”
He also highlighted the major role played in this operation by a mini eco-friendly cart, known as “Al Kashif Vehicle”, equipped with 16 high-tech inspection and detection devices allowing on-site inspections. The vehicle, developed in-house, was a prize winner at the 17th edition of the Dubai Government Excellence Programme 2013-2014 Awards in April 2014 for its innovative spirit. The “Al Kashif Vehicle” has markedly increased the volume of seized narcotics and restricted medications since its deployment at Dubai International Airport.
Mr. Bin Lahej additionally stressed Dubai Customs’ keenness to combat all smuggling attempts, a goal achieved through the use of efficient, trained and highly skilled Customs officers who are up-to-date on the latest drug identification and interception techniques.
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Photo:
Dubai Customs officers uncovering 9.2 kg of heroin concealed in the lining of a passenger’s bag