Dubai Customs seize over 26,000 units of restricted eye drops

Dubai Customs have foiled a series of smuggling attempts involving a restricted eye drop medication, commonly transported by travellers from Asia.

The drug, classified as a controlled substance in the UAE due to its narcotic properties, is banned for sale or use without a medical prescription.

Over the past two years, Dubai Customs officials have seized a total of 26,766 boxes of this medication in 62 separate operations, underlining the authority’s efforts to combat illegal imports and protect national borders from prohibited substances.

"This medication is often misused and can have narcotic-like effects on those who consume it without medical supervision," said Khalid Ahmed Yousef, Director of Passenger Operations at Dubai Customs.

He also revealed a recent crackdown on marijuana smuggling, with 13 attempts to smuggle 54 kg of the drug concealed in vacuum-sealed bags, thwarted.

Yousef highlighted Dubai Customs’ continuous investment in advanced inspection technology and training, ensuring the security of the nation’s borders.

#DubaiCustoms has successfully intercepted a sequence of smuggling attempts involving a restricted eye drop medication transported by travellers from Asia. This drug, classified as a controlled substance in the UAE, is prohibited for sale or use without a medical prescription due… pic.twitter.com/TLQApejn69

— جمارك دبي | Dubai Customs (@DubaiCustoms) November 20, 2024