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๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Saudi Arabia /Crime & Justice

Saudi Arabia Arrests 22 in Riyadh Drug Trafficking Network

From Saudi Gazette · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • Saudi authorities arrested 22 individuals, including 19 Saudis, in Riyadh for involvement in a drug smuggling and trafficking network.
  • The network included a Ministry of Municipalities and Housing employee and foreign nationals who had violated regulations.
  • Security agencies are maintaining vigilance against criminal elements targeting the Kingdom and its youth with narcotics.

Saudi authorities have successfully dismantled a significant drug smuggling and trafficking network operating in Riyadh, arresting 22 suspects. The Ministry of Interior announced the operation on Wednesday, confirming that 19 of those detained are Saudi citizens.

An official from the Ministry of Interior revealed that the network comprised individuals from various backgrounds. Among those arrested were an employee of the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, an Ethiopian national who had violated border security regulations, a Moroccan resident, and a Yemeni resident. This diverse composition highlights the complex nature of the criminal enterprise.

Saudi security agencies remain vigilant against criminal networks seeking to target the Kingdom and its youth through narcotics.

โ€” Ministry of Interior officialReaffirming the commitment to combating drug smuggling

Legal proceedings have been initiated against all 22 suspects, and their case has been transferred to the Public Prosecution for further action. The Ministry of Interior emphasized its commitment to combating drug-related crime, stating that Saudi security agencies remain vigilant against criminal networks aiming to destabilize the Kingdom and harm its youth through narcotics.

The ministry reiterated its firm stance, asserting that security authorities will continue to pursue and confront any individuals or groups attempting to undermine the Kingdom's security or endanger the safety of its citizens and residents. The operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Saudi authorities to maintain national security and protect the community from illicit drug activities.

security authorities will continue to pursue and confront anyone attempting to undermine the Kingdom's security or endanger the safety of citizens and residents.

โ€” Ministry of InteriorStressing the determination to maintain national security
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Saudi Gazette in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.