Sharjah Police bust drug smuggling ring, arrest 6 for narcotic-laced paper
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Sharjah Police have arrested six suspects of Asian origin after intercepting a package of illegal drugs smuggled into the UAE from a foreign country. The package, which was being transported via a shipping company, contained A4-size paper laced with 4kg of a synthetic drug known as 'Spice'.
The drug-laced paper was found hidden within closed envelopes and notebooks intended for drawing or writing. In addition to the synthetic drug, police also seized ready-to-sell marijuana, which was being stored for distribution within the country.
Following a tip-off about the illegal activities, a specialised task force was formed to trace and apprehend the suspects. The investigation, which initially focused on one individual, eventually uncovered five more people involved in the drug smuggling network.
Searches conducted in the homes of the suspects revealed various quantities of marijuana and additional amounts of 'Spice' hidden in one of the rooms. Despite attempts to conceal the drugs through sophisticated camouflage techniques, the police were able to uncover the narcotics through thorough examination.
In a statement, the authorities warned of the dangers of 'Spice', describing it as one of the most potent and harmful narcotics, even more dangerous than traditional drugs like opioids and heroin.
The arrested suspects have been referred to the public prosecutor's office to face legal action.
Colonel Majid Al-Assam highlighted the evolving criminal tactics being used to introduce drugs in innovative ways, particularly targeting young people. He emphasised that the police are intensifying efforts to detect and stop the smuggling of drugs through ports.
The authorities also noted that criminals are increasingly using social media to promote and sell drugs, as well as employing concealed methods to smuggle narcotics into the country.
Sharjah Police have urged the public to report any drug-related activities or suspicions by contacting them via the hotline 8004654 or by sending an email to [email protected].