RIYADH — Saudi customs authorities have thwarted an attempt to smuggle 1,100,000 narcotic pills into the country.

The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) said the pills were found hidden in a shipment that arrived at Jeddah Islamic Port.

ZATCA said that a shipment of "toys, clothes and various goods" was received, and during routine inspection, a large number of narcotic pills were found hidden inside the contents of the consignment. It added that the authority coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control to ensure the arrest of five persons who were supposed to receive the shipment.

The authority reiterated that it will continue to tighten customs control over the Kingdom’s imports and exports through all its outlets, and will confront any smugglers to achieve one of its most important tasks represented in the security and protection of society from their criminal acts. — SPA