Jordan thwarts drug trafficking attempt on border with Syria

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Jordanian Army thwarted on Wednesday infiltration attempt and drug trafficking coming from Syria, in addition to arresting a smuggler and seizing narcotics and ammunition.

A military source in the General Command of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army told Jordan News Agency Petra that the Jordanian soldiers applied the rules of engagement and opened fire at the smugglers, and subsequently arrested one smuggler, while the others escaped.

While searching in the area, the Jordanian army found narcotics, a firearm and ammunition, according to the source.

The Jordanian army “will use full force against any threat to the borders and prevent anyone tempted from tampering with Jordanian national security,” according to the source.

The Jordanian border is witnessing regular smuggling attempts, as Jordan’s forces are working to monitor smuggling operations and thwart them.

With the increase of drug trafficking attempts to Jordan through Syria, Amman announced it would change the rules of combating to prevent the flow of drugs.

The Gulf countries, topped by Saudi Arabia, are the main destination for these narcotics materials, according to data issued by the Jordanian authorities.

Drug trade is overwhelming southern Syria, as the price of a kilogram of hashish varies between 50.000-75.000 Syrian Pounds (SYP, equals $7-10), and a captagon pill costs only 500 SYP ($0.068).

Reporting by Emma Jamal