One of the world’s most wanted drug traffickers, Othman El Ballouti, has been arrested in Dubai.
The Belgian national, who is listed on INTERPOL’s Red Notice and Europol’s database, is accused of involvement in transnational organised crime and drug trafficking.
The arrest was made by the General Department of Criminal Investigation, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, following an international warrant issued by Belgian authorities.
El Ballouti has been transferred to Dubai Public Prosecution for extradition proceedings.
Dubai Police have reiterated their commitment to global cooperation in tackling organised crime and enhancing international security.
. @DubaiPoliceHQ arrest internationally wanted drug trafficker Othman El Ballouti. #Dubai Police reaffirmed their commitment to global collaboration in combating transnational organised crime, strengthening international partnerships, and sharing expertise to ensure the safety… pic.twitter.com/0pJv8GGpP7
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 9, 2024

UAE reaffirms it took defensive actions to protect sovereignty, civilians
UAE refutes Iranian allegations at BRICS meeting
Dubai to launch drone delivery services at parks, beaches
UAE, India ink defence, energy partnerships as Sheikh Mohamed meets Modi
UAE issues advisory over Danalac infant formula
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed opens DEWA's 'largest, smartest net-zero energy' HQ
UAE to restore Umayyad Mosque in Syria's Damascus
WATCH: Dubai driver caught for reckless stunts on high-speed highway
UAE brokers new round of Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange
H.H. Sheikh Khaled briefed on West-East oil pipeline project
Dubai's RTA impounds over 9,000 cars in 2025 for illegal parking
UAE condemns attack on Indian-flagged ship off Oman coast
UAE, UK ministers discuss regional stability, bilateral ties
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan reviews operations, developments at Jebel Ali Port
Drugs hidden inside passenger’s body seized at Abu Dhabi Airport
UAE President, Montenegro PM discuss stronger bilateral cooperation
Fujairah says pipeline work triggered fire in petroleum industries area
Yas Island announced as location for Sphere Abu Dhabi project
Warning issued on dangers of sudden road stops after 1 dead, 19 injured
UAE says reports of Israeli PM Netanyahu's visit 'entirely unfounded'
