Doha, Qatar: A joint operation between Qatar and Kuwait’s drug enforcement authorities has successfully intercepted a major drug smuggling attempt involving 75,000 Captagon pills.
The illicit shipment, hidden inside a spare car part, was being smuggled via air to Kuwait. It was intended for further distribution across the Gulf region.
Intelligence-Led Operation Leads to Arrest
Authorities acted on intelligence from informants, uncovering a criminal network. This network was trafficking large quantities of Captagon from Europe to the Gulf. Upon the shipment’s arrival in Kuwait, the General Administration of Customs’ Search and Investigation Department moved swiftly to arrest the suspect.
The detained individual, a Syrian national, admitted to receiving instructions from a relative in Europe to smuggle the contraband. This was in exchange for a payment.
Qatar-Kuwait Security Cooperation Strengthens
Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior expressed gratitude to Qatar’s General Drug Administration for its pivotal role in the operation. In a statement, the ministry emphasized:
“This collaboration reflects the deep security cooperation between both countries in combating drug trafficking and protecting societies from this dangerous scourge.”
The success of this operation underscores the strong partnership between Gulf security agencies. It highlights their shared commitment to tackling the regional drug trade.
What is Captagon?
Captagon, a synthetic stimulant originally developed in the 1960s for medical use, contains amphetamine and theophylline. Banned globally in the 1980s, it has since become a highly trafficked illicit drug, particularly in the Middle East.
During the rule of Bashar Al-Assad in Syria—which ended in December 2024—Captagon production skyrocketed. It served as a key revenue source for the regime. The drug became widespread in the Gulf, gaining popularity among youth as a recreational stimulant.
While Captagon induces alertness, energy, and euphoria, its dangerous side effects include addiction, anxiety, increased heart rate, and severe agitation.
The successful Qatar-Kuwait joint operation marks another critical step in the region’s ongoing battle against narcotics smuggling. It reinforces the collective fight against drug-related crimes.
