Interior Ministry Breaks the Back of Drug Traffickers
The Ministry of the Interior announced the arrest of five suspects who used three sites to operate an integrated factory for the production, processing, and storage of Lyrica capsules, a psychoactive substance. In a statement, the ministry confirmed that those apprehended included three Kuwaiti nationals, one Asian, and one African, who were involved in managing the factory, preparing the narcotic capsules, and storing them in preparation for distribution.
The operation was conducted under the direct supervision of the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousif, following intensive security investigations and meticulous monitoring that revealed the suspects’ use of three locations. Two of these sites were designated for storing raw Lyrica powder and ready-made capsules. The third site was a factory equipped with a large industrial machine for manufacturing capsules of the type used in pharmaceutical plants, along with specialized packaging and labeling equipment designed to make the products appear as genuine pharmaceuticals from licensed companies.
The statement noted that the inspections resulted in the seizure of approximately five tons of raw Lyrica powder, around four million ready-to-distribute capsules, a large industrial machine for capsule production and packaging, complete packaging and processing equipment, cash, and a handgun.
Initial investigations revealed that one of the suspects confessed to refraining from distributing the seized quantity, opting instead to store it out of fear of the stringent penalties stipulated by the new Anti-Drug Law, a clear indication that the legislation has achieved its deterrent effect before these toxins could reach users.
He added that the suspects and seized items had been referred to the competent authorities to take the necessary legal actions, and that efforts are underway to apprehend anyone proven to be involved in the case.
The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousif, emphasized that the new Anti-Drug Law has strengthened the deterrence system, becoming a source of fear for drug traffickers and prompting them to think twice before attempting to smuggle or distribute drugs. He stressed that the Ministry of the Interior remains committed to enforcing the law with firmness and continuing its efforts to protect society and safeguard the country’s security and stability.
