Saudi Border Guard foils attempt to smuggle 240 kg of khat in Asir

Saudi Border Guard foils attempt to smuggle 240 kg of khat in Asir

The report was dated July 19, 2026, at 03:23 PM.

Saudi Arabia maintains strict border controls to combat drug smuggling, particularly along its southern border.

July 19, 2026 | 03:23 PM

Saudi Gazette

Last Updated: July 19, 2026 | 03:23 PM

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In the Asir Region, the Saudi Border Guard apprehended 14 individuals from Ethiopia and Yemen for trying to smuggle 240 kg of the narcotic khat plant.

The arrests were made by land patrols in the Raboua Sector of Asir, as the suspects were caught in violation of the Border Security Law while attempting to smuggle the narcotic plant.

Authorities said the necessary preliminary legal procedures were completed, and the suspects, along with the seized qat, were referred to the competent authority.

The Border Guard urged the public to report any information related to drug smuggling or trafficking by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, 999 in the rest of the Kingdom, 994 for the Border Guard, or 995 for the General Directorate of Narcotics Control.

Reports can also be submitted via email at [email protected].

Authorities reiterated that all reports are handled with complete confidentiality and that informants bear no legal responsibility.

The successful seizure highlights the ongoing efforts of Saudi authorities to curb the flow of illegal substances into the Kingdom. Public cooperation is encouraged through dedicated hotlines and email, ensuring confidentiality for informants. The incident underscores the persistent threat of drug trafficking in the region.