As part of their relentless efforts to protect the society and secure Dubai’s ports, Dubai Customs launched Siyaj (Fence) initiative: the first integrated control 24/7 system in the world. The new system is based on a number of sophisticated AI technologies, rapid intervention teams that work around the clock, drones, and the K9 sniffing dog unit.

The initiative will enhance Dubai and the UAE’s security and help protect the society from the hazards of illegitimate shipments while facilitating trade and supporting the global supply chain.

The Siyaj initiative features integrated unites such as the advanced technological unit system and the highly qualified skilled team unit. All is based on a deep learning central data base that is regularly fed with updated information. And there are advanced inspection systems, surveillance cameras and devices. The system also includes a vessel equipped with advanced technologies to track and control ships before they arrive at the port. The rapid intervention teams are available 7 days a week and coordinate with the intelligence department to take action when there is a report of any suspicious goods.

“We feel proud today that our borders are more secure and our trade is streamlined following the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai,” said HE Sultan bin Sulayem, DP World Group Chairman & CEO and Chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation. “This initiative is an embodiment of the team spirit and the honest efforts that everyone at Dubai Customs always strives to maintain. We hope this initiative adds up to our cumulative work in the field to maintain the leading position the UAE enjoys worldwide.”

Director General of Dubai Customs, Ahmed Mahboob Musabih said: “Dubai Customs plays a vital role in thwarting smuggling of drugs and other illegitimate goods. In this regard, we cooperate and coordinate with the relevant authorities worldwide to intercept any suspicious or hazardous shipments before they enter the country. Customs authorities in the UAE made 4,450 customs seizures in 2019, and this initiative will cement the security efforts following the vision of Dubai Customs of becoming the leading customs organization worldwide supporting legitimate trade. We highly commend the efforts behind this leading initiative which will not only enhance the security of our borders but will also facilitate trade and supply chains.”

On his part, Abdullah Busnad, Executive Director of Customs Inspection Division at Dubai Customs said: “Siyaj Initiative is part of our efforts to maintain security over our borders to prevent any smuggling attempts of illegitimate goods and be able to have full control over trade operations within Dubai’s borders. All intelligence information will be analysed carefully to intercept suspicious shipments and thwart these smuggling illegitimate operations. This will also help streamline the international trade and supply chain.”

Busnad confirmed Siyaj System will be implemented soon in all Dubai’s entry points.

Cocaine worth more than £15 million has been seized by Border Force officers at London Gateway after it was found hidden within the floor of a container.

The detection was made during an intelligence led search of a 40ft, temperature controlled container that had been shipped from Costa Rica and was carrying a load of bananas. The container was in transit to Germany.

An initial X-Ray scan of the container identified an anomaly within the floor. When officers conducted a physical examination they found that the floor cavity, which would normally be packed with insulation had instead been filled with blocks of cocaine. A total of 380kg of the Class A drug, with an estimated street value of £15.2 million was ultimately recovered in an operation that took 19 hours to complete.

Minister for Immigration Compliance and the Courts Chris Philp said:

Illegal drugs have a significant impact on our society, being the root cause behind countless burglaries, thefts and robberies. They are also used as a commodity by organised criminals linked to violence and exploitation of the vulnerable.This is just one example of the crucial work that Border Force officers do every day to help keep the UK safe. Detections of dangerous Class A drugs such as this are testament to their dedication and expertise.

Border Force Assistant Director Pete Roffey said:

This was a sophisticated concealment and one that is rarely seen in the UK. The smugglers had cut the inner floor, raised it, removed and scraped out the insulation, packed in the drugs and then welded the inner floor back in place. They had left relatively little evidence that the container had been tampered with.

Following the Border Force detection, the seizure was referred to the National Crime Agency.

Border Force officers are the front line in protecting the country and play a key role in detecting illegal immigration, disrupting serious and organised crime and helping to prevent the threat of terrorism. Border Force also protects the UK’s revenue, contributing to the nation’s prosperity and growth.

They use an array of search techniques including sniffer dogs, carbon dioxide detectors, heartbeat monitors and scanners – as well as visual searches – to find well-hidden stowaways, illegal drugs, firearms and tobacco which would otherwise end up causing harm to local people, businesses and communities.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at an Indianapolis express consignment facility recently seized multiple shipments of Zolpidem, 10 milligram tablets, a schedule IV substance under the Controlled Substance Act.

The shipments were arriving from the United Kingdom and were all headed to separate addresses. The pills were concealed in six different parcels and were hidden in coffee tins. CBP officers inspected the shipment based on shared critical information.

“Most people hear about CBP seizing narcotics shipments,” said James Moore, Port Director, Indianapolis. “However shipments of illegal prescription pills are very dangerous too. These pills were not regulated by the FDA and can contain harmful chemicals that could be poisonous.”

Zolpidem, is a sedative, also called a hypnotic. It affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep problems (insomnia). Continued use of Zolpidem may lead to dependency. For the stated reason of its potential for recreational use and dependence, Zolpidem is a Schedule IV substance under the Controlled Substances Act.

CBP provides basic import information about admissibility requirements and the clearance process for e-commerce goods and encourages buyers to confirm that their purchases and the importation of those purchases comply with any state and federal import regulations.

CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.