Saudi border guards prevent attempt to smuggle 49 kilos of khat
m
A handout picture provided by the Saudi Ministry of Media on July 26, 2020, shows a policeman checking the identity of a driver in Saudi Arabia's holy city of Mecca, during the annual hajj pilgrimage amid the coronavirus crisis. - The 2020 hajj season, which has been scaled back dramatically to include only around 1,000 Muslim pilgrims as Saudi Arabia battles a coronavirus surge, is set to begin on July 29. Some 2.5 million people from all over the world usually participate in the ritual that takes place over several days, centred on the holy city of Mecca. This year's hajj will be held under strict hygiene protocols, with access limited to pilgrims under 65 years old and without any chronic illnesses. (Photo by Saudi Ministry of Media / AFP) / XGTY / === RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / HO / MINISTRY OF MEDIA" - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS ===
Saudi border guards in Al-Harth governate of Jazan region foiled an attempt to smuggle 49 kilograms of the narcotic khat.
The seized narcotics were handed over to the competent authority, and preliminary legal procedures were completed, state news agency SPA reported.
Khat is a flowering shrub native to the Arabian Peninsula. Individuals chew khat leaves for its stimulant effects, which are less intense than those caused by abusing cocaine or methamphetamine.
The Saudi government has urged anyone with information related to suspected smuggling operations or customs violations to call the confidential hotline 1910, the international number 00 966 114208417, or email 1910@zatca.gov.sa.
Tips received by the authority related to smuggling crimes and breaches of common customs law are treated with strict confidentiality. Financial rewards are offered for valid tips.
