Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, May 17: A drug smuggling attempt at Zayed International Airport was thwarted after authorities intercepted a passenger who had allegedly concealed cocaine capsules inside his body.

The case came to light when a customs officer detected suspicious behaviour during routine inspection procedures involving a passenger of African nationality arriving in the United Arab Emirates. The individual was subsequently subjected to advanced screening and transferred to a hospital for further examination.

Medical tests later confirmed the presence of foreign objects internally concealed within the passenger’s body. Following a surgical procedure, authorities recovered 100 capsules containing cocaine, weighing a total of 1,418 grams.

The seizure was documented immediately, and the suspect along with the confiscated narcotics was handed over to the relevant legal authorities for further action.

The operation was carried out through coordinated efforts between the General Directorate of Ports under the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) and the National Anti-Narcotics Authority.

Officials said the interception highlights the effectiveness of behavioural analysis, risk assessment, and advanced inspection systems used at UAE air entry points to combat drug trafficking.

Authorities added that the case reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and prevent the smuggling of illegal substances through enhanced surveillance and coordinated enforcement mechanisms.

The National Anti-Narcotics Authority praised the joint operation, noting the high level of coordination between field teams and analytical units, and reaffirmed its commitment to tackling drug trafficking networks and safeguarding national security.