RIYADH — Saudi Customs has thwarted two attempts to smuggle 2,483,926 amphetamine pills into the country. The drugs were found hidden in consignments arrived in Jeddah Islamic Port and Duba Port respectively, it was reported here today.

In a press release, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) explained that the first smuggling attempt was discovered at the customs department of Jeddah Islamic Port, where a consignment of plastic gloves was received. During the inspection, 2,060,000 amphetamine pills were found hidden inside glove boxes, said the statement.

The second smuggling attempt took place at the customs desk of Duba Port, where a consignment of oranges was received through the Red Sea port. Upon inspection, 423,926 tablets were found hidden in the spare tire of the truck carrying the consignment.

ZATCA explained that coordination with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control resulted in the arrest of three persons involved in these crimes.

The authority called on citizens and residents to contribute to the fight against drug smuggling to protect society and the national economy, by calling 1910, a number designated for security communications, or via e-mail 1910@zatca.gov.sa or the international number 00966114208417. — SPA