5.6 kg of marijuana seized

Under the directives of the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, inspectors from the Inspection and Storage Control Department at the Air Cargo Customs Administration seized two parcels arriving from South Africa containing 5.650 kilograms of a substance suspected to be marijuana. The seizure occurred during customs inspection of the parcels, which were declared as “ceiling lights,” after inspectors discovered the suspected material inside following a thorough search. Following the seizure, the Customs Research and Investigation Department coordinated with the General Administration for Combating Narcotics at the Ministry of Interior to complete the necessary legal procedures regarding the confiscated items. The General Customs Administration reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling attempts through customs checkpoints and to enhance coordination with relevant security agencies to protect society.

On another note, the Ministry of Interior warned against the use of buses for passenger transport or rental outside the scope of licenses granted to companies, emphasizing that it will take firm action against violators, including the revocation of company licenses and the deportation of offending drivers. The ministry called on citizens and residents to deal only with licensed companies and to verify that both the bus and the operating company are authorized to provide the required service, whether for transporting workers, school students, or other permitted activities. It stressed that some companies exploit buses designated for specific activities to transport passengers or offer rental services outside their licensed scope, which constitutes a violation warranting legal accountability and administrative measures against both the company and the driver. The ministry emphasized that compliance with licensing requirements aims to ensure passenger safety, ensure buses meet approved technical and insurance standards, and regulate the transport sector by preventing illegal practices that could endanger users. It clarified that relevant authorities monitor these violations on the ground, confirming that companies found exceeding their licensed activities will face measures up to license revocation, while offending drivers will be deported in accordance with established legal procedures. The ministry concluded by reiterating that adherence to laws and regulations governing the transport sector protects everyone and ensures the provision of safe and organized transport services.