Jordan Thwarts Major Drug Smuggling Attempt at Syrian Border
By Kardo Roj
ANMAN, Jordan (North Press) – Jordanian authorities announced Saturday the interception of a large drug shipment smuggled from Syrian territory, seizing 200,000 narcotic pills concealed within a freight vehicle at the Jaber border crossing.
According to a statement from the spokesperson of Jordan’s Public Security Directorate, the successful operation was carried out by the Anti-Narcotics Department in coordination with Jordanian Customs and other security agencies stationed at the border. The seizure was made following intelligence indicating an attempt to smuggle narcotics by a suspect of Arab nationality in coordination with individuals inside Jordan.
The vehicle was identified and intercepted as it arrived at the Jaber crossing. A detailed inspection revealed the narcotic pills hidden within a tire. In a coordinated move, a simultaneous raid was conducted inside Jordan, resulting in the arrest of two individuals who were allegedly set to receive the shipment.
Authorities confirmed that a full investigation is underway, with those detained currently under interrogation. The identities of the suspects have not been disclosed pending further inquiries.
The Jordan-Syria border has seen a growing number of narcotics smuggling incidents in recent years, with the Jaber crossing serving as a frequent transit point. This latest seizure highlights ongoing security challenges and the persistent efforts by organized networks to traffic illicit substances across regional borders.
In January, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani visited Amman, during which both countries agreed to form a joint security committee tasked with improving border control and combating smuggling of both weapons and narcotics. The committee aims to foster cooperative measures to curb the movement of illegal goods and maintain cross-border stability.
While the source of the seized drugs has not been officially identified, the growing regional concern over narcotics trafficking has led to increased international scrutiny, particularly regarding Syria’s role as a conduit for such operations. The issue remains complex, especially in border areas with limited centralized control and ongoing conflict-related instability.
The seizure is among several recent attempts disrupted by Jordanian forces, who have bolstered surveillance and enforcement measures along the Syrian frontier. Efforts to prevent narcotics from entering the kingdom remain a top priority for Amman, which continues to work with regional partners to address the transnational threat.
No further details were immediately available regarding the final destination or origin of the shipment, but Jordanian authorities affirmed their commitment to pursuing those involved and preventing future breaches of national security.