MUSCAT : Oman Customs stated that it is strengthening efforts to combat the smuggling of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances through proactive risk analysis, advanced inspection technologies, intelligence sharing and coordinated operations with security and judicial authorities, according to the Royal Oman Police.

Customs authorities analyse data relating to shipments, passengers and means of transport to identify potential risks and target cases requiring closer scrutiny. Goods, containers, luggage, parcels and vehicles are then examined using modern detection equipment and technologies.

The efforts cover Oman’s land, sea, air and postal ports, where customs officers work to detect and seize narcotics and psychotropic substances and prevent smuggling attempts.

Oman Customs said it is also monitoring emerging concealment techniques used by smugglers and developing detection procedures to counter changing methods. Seizure records, shipping routes and smuggling techniques are analysed to identify patterns and possible links between separate attempts.

Cooperation and information exchange form another key part of the strategy, with customs authorities coordinating with security and judicial agencies, other customs administrations and international organisations to combat cross-border drug trafficking.

Customs also supports investigations by documenting seizures, preserving evidence and referring cases to the relevant authorities, helping investigators identify individuals and networks involved in smuggling activities.

The authorities participate in joint national, regional and international operations targeting drug-smuggling networks, while continuing to train customs personnel to recognise suspicious indicators, identify different types of drugs, detect concealment methods and operate specialised detection equipment.

Oman Customs also highlighted the importance of public awareness and the protection of ports and supply chains from being exploited in smuggling activities, including efforts to educate society about the dangers of drugs and ways to prevent them.

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