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Major Cocaine Bust at El Guergarat: Joint Operation Intercepts 37 Kg Shipment

Wednesday 02 - 08:50

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In a significant blow to international drug trafficking, Moroccan authorities have successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle over 37 kilograms of cocaine into the country. The operation, carried out on Tuesday at the El Guergarat border crossing south of Dakhla, was a joint effort by elements of the National Security and Customs services.

The meticulously planned operation resulted in the seizure of 37.635 kg of cocaine, ingeniously concealed within the cabin of an international freight transport truck. The vehicle, registered in Morocco, was ostensibly transporting a shipment of dried fruit from a sub-Saharan African country.

Authorities reported that the hard drugs were packaged into 36 plates, carefully hidden to evade detection. The truck's driver, a 30-year-old Moroccan national, was apprehended at the scene.

This operation underscores Morocco's intensified efforts to combat international drug trafficking, particularly the illicit trade of hard drugs and psychotropic substances originating from outside the country. The General Directorate of National Security has been at the forefront of these endeavors, consistently demonstrating its commitment to curbing the flow of narcotics across its borders.

The success of this operation comes on the heels of a similar incident just days prior. On September 17, the regional customs office of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab intercepted 38 kg of cocaine at the same border crossing, concealed within a vehicle entering the country.

Morocco's dedication to the fight against drug trafficking has garnered international recognition. In a testament to its efforts, the country was re-elected for a third term as a member of the International Narcotics Control Board in April. This election, conducted by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, saw Jalal Toufiq representing Morocco on the board.

As the investigation unfolds, security services are working diligently under the supervision of the public prosecutor's office. Their primary objectives are to uncover the full extent of this criminal network, including its local and international connections, and to apprehend all individuals involved in orchestrating and executing this illicit operation.

This latest seizure not only highlights the ongoing challenges faced by border control agencies but also demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between different branches of law enforcement. As Morocco continues to strengthen its position as a bulwark against drug trafficking in the region, such operations serve as a stark warning to those attempting to use the country as a transit point for illegal substances.