UAE authorities dismantled an international drug trafficking network, arrested 20 suspects and seized 200,000 Captagon pills and over 30kg of narcotics in a joint operation involving UAE and Iraqi security agencies
UAE authorities have dismantled an international drug trafficking network, arresting 20 suspects and preventing the smuggling of 200,000 Captagon pills and more than 30 kilograms of narcotics into the country.
The National Drug Enforcement Authority carried out the operation alongside Ras Al Khaimah Police, Dubai Police, Sharjah Police, Ajman Police and Iraq’s General Directorate of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Affairs. The UAE Public Prosecution provided judicial coordination.
Intelligence cooperation exposes smuggling network
The operation followed intelligence-sharing between UAE and Iraqi authorities. The joint efforts uncovered plans by an international criminal network to smuggle large quantities of drugs through a border area in Ras Al Khaimah.
Investigators identified suspects from Gulf, Arab, African and Asian countries. The suspects allegedly planned to distribute the drugs across the UAE. Security teams intercepted several suspects during the smuggling attempt. Coordinated operations also led to the arrest of other network members across the country. Authorities seized cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, hashish and synthetic cannabinoids known as Spice, alongside the Captagon tablets.
UAE strengthens crackdown on drug trafficking
The National Drug Enforcement Authority said the operation highlighted the effectiveness of regional intelligence-sharing. It also demonstrated the importance of coordinated efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Officials pledged to continue targeting international criminal networks. They also urged residents to report suspicious activities that could threaten public safety.
Impact to Expect
The operation is expected to strengthen cross-border security cooperation and disrupt narcotics distribution networks targeting the UAE. It also highlights the growing importance of intelligence-led investigations and international partnerships in preventing drug trafficking while protecting communities from illegal substances.
