Man Arrested for Smuggling Dh5m of Drugs in Abu Dhabi Airport

A man was arrested at Abu Dhabi International Airport for attempting to smuggle drugs worth Dh5 million by concealing 1.2 kilograms of cocaine in 89 capsules inside his intestines. The suspect, who had arrived on a flight from South America, appeared to be in discomfort, prompting airport authorities to perform a body scan. The scan revealed the hidden narcotics, leading to his immediate arrest. This case highlights the UAE’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking through increasingly sophisticated methods of concealment.

This arrest is part of a broader trend at Abu Dhabi Airport, where authorities have previously intercepted smuggling attempts involving individuals who ingest drug-filled capsules. In 2014, for instance, five Nigerian nationals were arrested within a span of just 12 days for attempting to smuggle over 9 kilograms of cocaine in similar fashion. These incidents underscore the persistent challenge faced by customs and law enforcement agencies in detecting such high-risk smuggling techniques.

In response to these challenges, the UAE has continued to bolster its security measures, utilizing advanced screening technologies and extensive training for airport personnel. These efforts are part of the country’s broader strategy to maintain rigorous anti-narcotics laws and ensure that anyone attempting to exploit the nation’s transit hubs for illegal activities is swiftly apprehended and prosecuted.