UAE Customs Intercept 16.2kg Crystal Meth Smuggling Attempt

• •16.2kg of crystal meth was seized hidden in a vehicle tyre.
• •The operation involved advanced scanning technology and K9 support.
• •UAE Customs has recorded 765 drug seizures in 2026, totaling 390kg.

On September 30, 2026, UAE Customs authorities thwarted an attempt to smuggle 16.2kg of crystal methamphetamine concealed in a vehicle's tyre at a land border crossing. Customs inspectors from the General Directorate of Ports Security detected unusual indicators during advanced scanning, prompting a manual inspection that revealed the drugs. This operation involved collaboration with the Customs and Security Support Department's K9 team, which specializes in narcotics detection. The seizure is part of a broader effort, with 765 narcotics seizures recorded in 2026, totaling approximately 390kg of drugs and 50,000 narcotic pills. The authorities emphasized the importance of advanced technology and inspector vigilance in combating sophisticated smuggling methods. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) commended the inspectors for their professionalism and efficiency.