DUBAI: Dubai Customs helped stop a major drug shipment after sharing intelligence with authorities in an African country.
The shipment contained about 1.332 tonnes of Tapentadol tablets, according to Dubai Customs.
Tapentadol is a strong pain medicine that can be abused if sold or used illegally.
Officials said the shipment started in Asia and moved through air cargo.
It was later intercepted by authorities in the destination country after information was shared by Dubai Customs.
The case showed how customs intelligence can help stop drug shipments before they reach illegal markets.
Contents
Data Helped Spot the Risk
Dubai Customs said its Customs Intelligence Department and Special Task Force monitor cargo and trade data to look for suspicious patterns.
These teams study operational, commercial, and logistics information.
This helps them spot possible smuggling attempts before goods move deeper into supply chains.
Dubai Customs also uses advanced inspection tools, including radiographic scanning systems, AI-powered image analysis, and special detection technology.
These tools help officers check risky shipments while allowing normal trade to move smoothly.
Dubai’s Wider Security Role
Dubai Customs said its work now goes beyond protecting the UAE’s borders.
The authority said it is also working with international customs and law enforcement agencies to help protect communities in other countries.
Dubai Customs works with Interpol, the World Customs Organization, Regional Intelligence Liaison Offices, and customs teams around the world.
Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director-General of Dubai Customs, said the operation showed Dubai’s position as a trusted partner in the global security system.
He said investment in technology, trained people, and international partnerships helps fight criminal networks that operate across countries.
Inspectors Trained for New Smuggling Methods
Mohammed Al Ghaffari, Executive Director of the Customs Inspection Division at Dubai Customs, said the division acts as the first line of defence against prohibited and smuggled goods.
He said inspectors receive regular specialised training to keep up with changing smuggling methods and newly identified narcotic and psychotropic substances.
Yasser Al Musallami, Principal Advisor for Customs Affairs at Dubai Customs, said the authority’s smart risk engine supports targeting operations.
He said the system analyses data in real time and helps identify warning signs with high accuracy.
Officials from the African country thanked Dubai Customs for the information.
They said the intelligence helped them intercept the shipment and showed why countries must work together against drug trafficking and organized crime.
