Narcotics Control: Thwarts Largest Operation for Manufacturing and Distributing "Larica" in Kuwait's History
Under the direct supervision of the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, the Criminal Security Sector, represented by the General Administration for Combating Narcotics, thwarted the largest operation of its kind in the history of the State of Kuwait involving the manufacturing and trafficking of “Larica,” a psychoactive substance. Five suspects were apprehended, including three Kuwaiti nationals and two individuals holding Jordanian and Egyptian citizenship, who were involved in managing a factory for “Larica” psychoactive capsules and preparing them for distribution.
The arrest followed intensive security investigations and meticulous monitoring that revealed the suspects were using three locations. Two sites were designated for storing raw “Larica” powder and ready-made capsules, while the third site had been converted into a factory equipped with a large industrial machine for manufacturing capsules of the type used in pharmaceutical plants, alongside specialized machinery for packaging and labeling to make the products appear as genuine pharmaceuticals issued by licensed companies.
Inspections resulted in the seizure of approximately five tons of raw “Larica” powder, nearly four million ready-to-distribute capsules, a large industrial machine for manufacturing and filling capsules, complete packaging and preparation equipment, cash sums, and a firearm (pistol). The total market value of all seized items was estimated at approximately 150 million Kuwaiti dinars.
Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the suspects confessed to refraining from distributing the seized quantity and limiting himself to storing it, out of fear of the severe penalties stipulated by the new Anti-Narcotics Law. This clearly indicated that the legislation had already achieved its deterrent effect before these toxins reached users.
The suspects and seized items were referred to the competent authorities to take the necessary legal actions against them, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend anyone proven to be involved in this case.
The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, emphasized that the new Anti-Narcotics Law has contributed to strengthening the deterrence system and has become a source of fear for drug traffickers, prompting them to think twice before attempting to smuggle or distribute drugs. He stressed that the Ministry of Interior remains committed to applying the law with firmness and continuing its efforts to protect society and safeguard the security and stability of the nation.
