The 13-member drug trafficking gang arrested in the UAE. SUPPLIED

UAE authorities have arrested a 13-member drug trafficking gang and seized narcotics worth around Dh3.3 million following a month-long joint operation involving Dubai Police, Sharjah Police and Bahrain Police. The National Anti-Narcotics Authority announced on Wednesday (April 29) that the criminal network was linked to an overseas ringleader who allegedly directed drug distribution operations across the UAE. In cooperation with Bahrain’s security agencies, authorities were also able to arrest the gang leader outside the country and extradite him to the UAE, where he now faces legal proceedings. According to authorities, the gang consisted of Asian and African suspects who were working under instructions from an Asian drug dealer based outside the country. Investigations revealed that the gang received orders remotely from the overseas suspect, who allegedly coordinated the movement and sale of narcotics in multiple areas across the UAE. The operation resulted in the seizure of 56.623kg of narcotic substances, 8,159 psychotropic tablets, and a large quantity of electronic cigarettes filled with hashish oil. Authorities estimated the total street value of the confiscated drugs at approximately Dh3.3 million. The National Anti-Narcotics Authority said the arrests followed extensive searches, intelligence gathering, field surveillance and close monitoring of the suspects’ movements and communications. Officials said the successful operation reflects ongoing regional cooperation in combating organised drug trafficking and dismantling transnational criminal networks. The UAE continues to maintain strict anti-narcotics laws, with authorities regularly warning that drug trafficking and possession carry severe criminal penalties, including imprisonment and deportation. ICA/Expat Media
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