In a new blow to international smuggling networks, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at the Al-Haditha border crossing announced that it had thwarted an attempt to smuggle a large quantity of amphetamine pills, amounting to 269,411 Captagon pills, which were on their way into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Details of the fine-tuning process

ZATCA's official spokesperson, Professor Hamoud Al-Harbi, explained that the operation began when a shipment classified as "foodstuffs" arrived at the Al-Haditha border crossing. During routine customs procedures, the shipment aroused the inspectors' suspicions, prompting a thorough examination using the latest security technologies and live detection methods (police dogs). The examination revealed narcotic pills that had been professionally and ingeniously concealed inside containers of ghee. Part of the contents of the containers had been emptied, filled with the narcotic pills, and then resealed tightly for camouflage.

Al-Harbi added that immediately after the seizure, coordination was established with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control in a proactive step aimed at tracking down the criminal network responsible. This fruitful security cooperation resulted in the arrest of the recipients of the shipment within the Kingdom; two individuals were apprehended and legal proceedings are underway against them.

Ongoing efforts in the war on drugs

This operation comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect its land, sea, and air borders. The Al-Haditha border crossing, which connects the Kingdom to Jordan, is one of the most important and busiest land crossings, making it a constant target for smuggling networks seeking to exploit it to bring in contraband. This operation demonstrates the high level of vigilance and preparedness of customs officials and their ability to detect evolving criminal methods.

The strategic importance of protecting society

The importance of such operations extends beyond security to encompass crucial social and economic dimensions. Domestically, thwarting the smuggling of these massive quantities helps protect youth and society from the devastating scourge of drugs, directly contributing to one of the key objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030: building a vibrant and secure society. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom's success in disrupting the supply routes of these criminal networks strengthens regional security and underscores its role as an active partner in combating transnational organized crime.

The official spokesperson reiterated that ZATCA and all partner security agencies are committed to tightening customs controls on all imports and exports, and to standing firm against anyone attempting to compromise the security of the nation and the safety of its citizens. The authority also called upon citizens and residents to contribute to these national efforts by reporting any information related to smuggling through the designated official channels, such as the number (1910) or the email address (1910@zatca.gov.sa), emphasizing the complete confidentiality of informants and the availability of substantial financial rewards if the information is accurate.

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued its daily weather report, forecasting continued weather fluctuations across parts of the Kingdom. The report indicated expectations of thunderstorms, accompanied by active winds that may stir up dust and sand, today (Friday) in parts of the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions.

Weather details and its effects

The center explained that the weather effects are not limited to rain, but also include surface wind activity that may stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility. This impact extends to the eastern parts of the southwestern highlands, as well as scattered areas of Riyadh, Madinah, Qassim, Hail, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders regions. In a related context, the center did not rule out the possibility of light rain in the northernmost parts of the Kingdom, adding another dimension to the prevailing weather conditions.

Climatic context of the southwestern highlands

These forecasts are consistent with the typical climatic pattern of the southwestern highlands of the Kingdom, characterized by towering mountains such as the Sarawat Mountains. These regions receive above-average rainfall, particularly during the spring and summer months, due to the influence of humid monsoon winds originating from the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. This rainfall replenishes dams and groundwater wells, supports the agricultural sector for which these areas are renowned, and creates lush green landscapes that attract tourists and visitors.

Importance and expected effects

Locally, these rains are of great importance; they are a vital source of water and contribute to moderating temperatures. However, they can also present challenges that require caution. The General Directorate of Civil Defense frequently issues warnings to citizens and residents to take precautions, stay away from valleys and floodplains, and avoid low-lying areas during rainfall. Furthermore, strong winds and accompanying dust may affect traffic on highways, necessitating careful driving. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the continuous updates from the National Center of Meteorology and relevant authorities to take the necessary precautions and ensure public safety.

The Saudi capital, Riyadh, is preparing to host the “Saudi Healthcare Model Forum 2026,” the Kingdom’s premier healthcare event, which will be held on February 10th and 11th under the theme “Making an Impact.” The forum is held under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Health, Mr. Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Health Holding Company, and will bring together leading minds and experts in the healthcare field.

Historical background: A key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030

This forum is being organized within the context of the comprehensive national transformation underway in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030. The "Health Sector Transformation Program" is one of the Vision's most important programs, aiming to restructure the sector into a comprehensive, efficient, and integrated healthcare system. This transformation relies on shifting from a treatment-based model of care to one that focuses on prevention and promotes public health, prioritizing the health of individuals and the community. The establishment of the Health Holding Company and the 20 health clusters across the Kingdom represent the practical application of this transformation, with the goal of increasing operational efficiency and facilitating access to high-quality healthcare services.

The importance of the forum and its expected impact

The forum holds strategic importance as a vital platform for discussing the present and future of the Saudi healthcare model. Locally, it aims to unify the visions of over 3,000 national healthcare professionals from various health clusters and the public and private sectors, ensuring the consistent and effective implementation of the model across the Kingdom. Regionally, the forum reinforces Saudi Arabia's position as a leader in healthcare development in the region and opens avenues for exchanging expertise with neighboring countries striving to develop their healthcare systems. Internationally, the presence of over 25 international speakers and 85 global participating entities reflects the world's interest in the Saudi healthcare transformation, making it a platform for sharing global best practices and developing sustainable solutions to shared health challenges.

Key themes and enriching scientific sessions

The forum, organized by Health Holding Company, will feature more than 25 panel discussions and scientific sessions, focusing on four main themes: health governance and policies, innovation and artificial intelligence, financing and sustainability, and population health and accessibility. These sessions aim to translate strategic visions into measurable health impact and highlight the role of the model in enhancing individual quality of life.

The agenda for the first day includes vital topics such as “Designing Systems That Contribute to Saving Lives and Enhancing Quality of Life”, “Practical Financing and Incentives for Care Models”, “Digital Transformation in Healthcare”, and “Digital Innovations and Integration with Artificial Intelligence”.

The second day focuses on discussing health learning systems and their role in managing population health risks, the challenges of building an integrated digital system, the role of artificial intelligence in supporting the workforce, as well as strategies to accelerate the implementation of the healthcare model and effectively manage chronic diseases.

It is worth mentioning that this forum represents a unique opportunity for leaders, decision-makers, investors and health experts to exchange knowledge and build quality partnerships, in order to serve the objectives of the health sector transformation program and the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030.