Today's Edition
DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
Dubai Police have arrested three individuals for attempting to smuggle 89,760 Captagon tablets by hiding the pills inside clothing buttons.
The narcotics, weighing 18.93 kilograms and valued at Dh4.48 million, were seized before they could be smuggled overseas.
The operation was carried out in close coordination with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Operation Toxic Buttons
The operation, codenamed Toxic Buttons, is part of Dubai Police’s continuous efforts to combat drug trafficking, and thwart criminal schemes targeting vulnerable youth. A carefully planned security strategy was launched to track the suspects, in cooperation with national authorities.
Investigators confirmed that the gang had concealed the drug-laden clothing items in a Dubai apartment, and a second location in a neighbouring emirate.
In a statement, Dubai Police confirmed that the operation was initiated following the receipt of reliable intelligence indicating that a three-member gang, consisting of two Arab nationals and one Asian national, was preparing to receive narcotics and smuggle them to a neighbouring country, under instructions from an individual residing outside the UAE.
A specialised task force was immediately formed, legal permissions were secured from Dubai’s Public Prosecution, and the suspects’ movements, vehicles, and residences were placed under surveillance.
Round-the-Clock Surveillance
The suspects attempted several times to relocate the drugs, passing them off as regular merchandise, but their actions were monitored rigorously by Dubai Police’s anti-narcotics teams.
At the designated time, officers raided the premises, and confiscated the clothing items that had the drugs concealed within.
Operational Excellence
Dubai Police credited the operation’s success to the skill and experience of its officers, who are trained to identify and counter any and all methods used by drug traffickers. The force reaffirmed its determination to dismantle criminal networks, bring offenders to justice, and protect the community from the scourge of drugs.
Dubai Police's specialised field operations highlight the force's advanced capabilities in combating organised crime through the use of modern investigative techniques, sophisticated security planning, and international cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
Commitment to International Cooperation
Dubai Police reaffirmed, in its statement, that the success of its latest anti-narcotics operation reflects the guidance of the UAE’s leadership, and its commitment to strengthening international cooperation against organised crime. The force also reiterated its support for global law enforcement efforts that aim to build a society free from drugs and make the world a safer place.
