Customs and police have dismantled a major smuggling and distribution network.
Dubai: In a major joint security operation highlighting strong institutional coordination, Dubai Customs and Dubai Police have foiled an attempt to smuggle and distribute 278,850 Pregabalin pills—a controlled substance weighing around 200 kilograms—and dismantled a four-member criminal gang linked to the operation.
The seizure followed a coordinated effort between Dubai Customs’ advanced risk-based targeting systems and Dubai Police’s General Department of Anti-Narcotics, reinforcing Dubai’s integrated approach to border security and drug control.
Intelligence-led interception at the border
The operation began when Dubai Customs’ shipment analysis systems—powered by smart risk engines, artificial intelligence tools, and customs intelligence capabilities—flagged a suspicious consignment arriving from an Asian country.
Acting on the alert, the Siyaj customs team conducted a detailed inspection and seized 150,600 Pregabalin pills at the point of entry.
Following swift coordination with Dubai Police, further investigations led to the identification and arrest of a four-member criminal gang operating inside the country. The suspects were later found in possession of an additional 128,250 pills of the same controlled substance.
In total, the operation resulted in the seizure of 278,850 Pregabalin pills.
Security officials have highlighted the importance of integration and rapid response in the operation.
Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza, Director of the General Department of Anti-Narcotics, said the success reflects ongoing coordination and full operational integration between Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, enabling authorities to quickly move from the initial seizure to tracking and arresting the wider criminal network.
He added that the exchange of intelligence and swift coordination between agencies helps proactively disrupt smuggling operations before they can expand, noting that efforts will continue to strengthen intelligence and investigative capabilities alongside strategic partners.
Smart systems and proactive targeting
Yasser Al Musallami, Principal Customs Affairs Consultant at Dubai Customs, said the operation demonstrates Dubai Customs’ high level of readiness in securing border points through skilled national personnel, advanced technology, and proactive risk-based systems.
He highlighted the role of the “Siyaj” system, developed by Dubai Customs, which enhances smart targeting by linking security indicators with advanced analytics to improve detection of high-risk shipments and increase the efficiency of inspection and seizure operations.
He added that combating evolving smuggling methods requires continuous investment in inspection technologies, training, and close coordination with strategic partners—particularly Dubai Police—across all stages, from early targeting to investigative follow-up.
AI-driven intelligence capabilities
Rashed bin Harb Al Shamsi, Director of the Customs Intelligence Department at Dubai Customs, said the achievement reflects the continued evolution of customs operations, which now rely heavily on artificial intelligence, data analytics, and advanced risk engines to identify suspicious shipments before they enter the country.
He stressed that Dubai Customs’ approach is based on proactive risk management rather than routine inspection, positioning the authority among the world’s leading border protection agencies while ensuring the smooth flow of legitimate trade.
Integrated security model
The case underscores Dubai’s integrated security framework, where Dubai Customs acts as the first line of defence at border points through early detection and targeting, while Dubai Police conducts field operations and investigations to dismantle criminal networks.
Authorities said this model continues to reinforce Dubai’s position as one of the world’s safest cities and a leading global hub for trade, logistics, and secure commerce.
