Israeli questioned in Italian airport after 216 kg of khat found in seven suitcases in his luggage

An Israeli citizen was detained at Rome's Fiumicino Airport after authorities discovered approximately 216 kilograms of khat concealed within seven suitcases in his luggage. The 22-year-old arrived on a flight from Tel Aviv and reportedly aroused suspicion due to vague and contradictory answers about his visit's purpose and intended stay.

Following a more thorough inspection, including X-ray scanning and opening the suitcases, large quantities of fresh khat leaves and stalks were found. Italian authorities classify the possession of khat as a drug offense, a stark contrast to its legal status in Israel and Yemen. The seized shipment is being held as evidence as part of an ongoing investigation.

The young man was not arrested but was released after initial questioning. However, a criminal case has been opened against him and transferred to prosecutors in Civitavecchia. He is suspected of violating Italian narcotics law concerning drug possession and trafficking. The estimated value of the seized khat on the European black market could reach tens of thousands of euros, with its potency diminishing quickly after harvest.

This incident highlights a recurring issue where Israelis face legal trouble in European countries for attempting to smuggle khat, a substance legal in Israel but banned in many EU nations. The seizure was conducted as part of a joint operation involving Italy's Customs and Finance Police unit, the Guardia di Finanza, and the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM).