In a major collaborative effort, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) spearheaded a joint operation with 21 countries that resulted in the seizure of a staggering 55 tonnes of drugs worth approximately ₹5,500 crore. This successful endeavor led to the arrest of 597 suspects involved in drug trafficking.
Lt.-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of the UAE, shared a video showcasing the two-month-long operation led by the International Security Alliance. This alliance comprises ministries of interior, justice, and home affairs from 11 countries, including the UAE.
Executed in partnership with the Police Community of the Americas, the operation united nations from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America to devise innovative strategies in combating the drug trade. The primary objective was to dismantle transnational illicit drug trafficking networks. The video footage revealed extensive monitoring of air, land, and sea routes throughout the operation.
The video footage showcased the interception and confiscation of various drug shipments. Law enforcement officers were seen retrieving narcotics concealed within unconventional items, such as watermelons.
This significant operation, which concluded on June 26 to coincide with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, is expected to yield further breakthroughs in drug busts and apprehensions.
The International Security Alliance Secretariat, hosted by the UAE, efficiently coordinated this operation. The alliance, established in February 2017 by France and the UAE, aims to protect global communities by combatting organized transnational crimes.
The UAE's prominent role in this international operation underscores its commitment to fighting drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and security of communities worldwide. The successful outcome of this joint endeavor highlights the significance of global cooperation in the battle against illicit drug trade.
