Dubai Police have made significant strides in combating global drug trafficking, arresting 308 international drug-related suspects and seizing more than 2.25 tonnes of narcotics in 2023, authorities reported on Thursday. The drugs confiscated included khat, cocaine, marijuana, and heroin, as well as 7.92 million narcotic pills.
The General Department of Anti-Narcotics at Dubai Police also provided critical support to law enforcement agencies worldwide, submitting 372 drug-related dossiers to 44 countries last year. Additionally, authorities blocked nearly 1,923 online accounts linked to drug dealers on various social media platforms.
In a statement, Major General Khalil Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Assistant Commandant for Criminal Investigation Affairs at Dubai Police, emphasized the role of advanced technologies and international collaboration in their success. “Apprehending dealers and seizing significant quantities of narcotics and psychotropic substances reflect Dubai Police’s ongoing international efforts to combat drug trafficking,” he said. “These efforts contribute to enhancing community protection and security, while making notable achievements in the fight against crime.”
Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza, Acting Director of the General Department of Anti-Narcotics, highlighted the global reach of Dubai Police’s efforts over the past five years, citing the sharing of 894 pieces of intelligence with 66 countries. This information led to the arrest of 550 international suspects and the seizure of 29.45 tonnes of narcotics.
One of the most notable operations was Operation Sugar Cane, which resulted in the arrest of a key member of a major crime syndicate trafficking cocaine between South America and Europe via sugar shipments. This operation led to the seizure of a massive 22 tonnes of cocaine. Other significant operations included Operation Veyda, which dismantled a drug trafficking and money laundering network, and Operation Storm, which intercepted over 13 tonnes of Captagon pills.
In addition to its frontline operations, Dubai Police continue to run public awareness campaigns to combat the dangers of narcotics. The Hemaya International Centre, part of Dubai Police, conducted 333 community awareness programs for students last year, reaching over 13 million people through its educational initiatives and social media platforms.
The coordinated efforts reflect Dubai Police’s ongoing commitment to addressing the global narcotics crisis and protecting communities both locally and internationally.
