Yemen Seizes Smuggled Hazardous Chemicals and Restricted Drugs at Al-Wadiah Border

Yemen's Customs Authority announced on Wednesday the successful interception of a large shipment of hazardous chemicals and restricted pharmaceuticals attempting to be smuggled through the Al-Wadiah land port. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Supreme Board of Medicines and relevant security agencies.

The authority stated in a release that the seized shipment was concealed using sophisticated and professional camouflage methods in an attempt to bypass inspection procedures. The statement emphasized that the operation was part of a collaborative effort among concerned authorities to enhance surveillance at border crossings.

According to the release, the confiscated items included 470 kilograms of sodium cyanide, classified as a highly toxic substance and subject to international dual-use controls. This material was found hidden within 47 sacks of rice. Additionally, 1,100 kilograms of activated carbon were discovered concealed inside 169 sacks of rice, along with 105 liters of 68% nitric acid.

The Customs Authority further detailed that the shipment also contained 54,680 tablets of "Solpadeine Effervescent" hidden within washing machines, cleaning product containers, and a suitcase. Authorities also seized 238 tubes of medical ointments and a medical device for fluid suction, described as an attempt to circumvent regulations.

The release quoted the Director-General of Al-Wadiah Customs, Abdulhaq Lahsan, stating that the seizure was carried out in accordance with the government's commitments to international agreements and in execution of customs and prevailing laws. He affirmed that authorities will not tolerate the entry of any materials that could threaten national security, public health, or the environment.

This operation comes amid intensified supervisory measures at land ports, reflecting efforts to curb the smuggling of hazardous materials and restricted goods into the country.