In a significant move to bolster efforts against drug trafficking, His Excellency Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, the President of the National Anti-Drugs Agency, visited the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security on Thursday. The visit took place at the General Administration of Customs and Port Security in Dubai.
Meeting Key Officials
During the visit, His Excellency met with Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, as well as Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahij Al Falasi, Acting Director General of Customs and Port Security, and Mohamed Ahmed Al Kuwaiti, Acting Director General of Ports. Several other local customs directors and officials from the authority were also present.
Insight into Customs Operations
His Excellency was briefed on the customs operating system in the UAE and the efforts of Emirates Customs, represented by both the Federal Authority and local customs, in combating drug smuggling. He gained insights into the readiness of customs inspection sectors at various entry points and the latest inspection methods being implemented.
Utilising Canine Units
A presentation was conducted highlighting the role of live assets, notably the customs dogs (K9), in drug interdiction efforts, alongside showcasing the latest inspection devices being used across land, air, and sea ports.
Praising Collaborative Achievements
Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan commended the achievements of the authority and Emirates Customs in battling drug trafficking. He specifically noted the vigilance of customs inspectors and relevant authorities at the nation’s borders, emphasizing the high level of coordination and strategic partnerships between the agency and local customs departments. He underscored how these collaborations are pivotal in curbing drug smuggling activities, thereby safeguarding community security and stability.
Addressing Drug Trafficking Challenges
In response, Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili acknowledged the strategic role played by the National Anti-Drugs Agency in protecting community safety. He highlighted the commitment of the authority and local customs departments to foster coordination and cooperation with strategic partners, aimed at enhancing operational plans and improving the efficiency of the customs inspection system nationwide. He also stressed the importance of adopting best practices to elevate the quality of customs services and increasing security awareness among inspectors to meet the directives of the wise leadership and the aspirations of UAE citizens for a secure and stable society.
Joint Discussion on Future Cooperation
The visit included a joint meeting focused on strengthening cooperation. Attendees included Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director General of Ajman Port and Customs, and other key figures such as Sheikh Mansour Ibrahim Ahmed Al Mualla, Executive Director of the Free Trade Zone – Umm Al Quwain, Dr. Abdullah Boushnad, Director General of Dubai Customs, and Mohamed Mir Abdul Rahman Al Sarrah, Director of Ports and Customs in the Sharjah Ports and Customs Authority.
Strategies for Enhancing Awareness
The meeting discussed the latest developments and outcomes of national efforts to combat drug trafficking. Participants explored ways to boost security awareness among customs inspectors regarding contemporary smuggling methods and to optimise the utilisation of available resources and capabilities to enhance the UAE’s regional and global standing in drug control and eliminate this societal menace.