UAE Collaborates With International Security Alliance To Seize 822 Tonnes Of Drugs Worth USD 2.9 Billion

The International Security Alliance (ISA), with the involvement of the United Arab Emirates, recently executed a major anti-drug operation. This initiative targeted international criminal networks engaged in drug trafficking worth $2.9 billion. The operation involved collaboration among 25 countries and several global police organisations.

This joint effort marked the second comprehensive operation by ISA, conducted via air, sea, and land. It resulted in the confiscation of over 822 tons of various cross-border drugs and led to the arrest of 12,564 suspects worldwide.

Several ISA member states participated in this two-month operation, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Spain, Morocco, France, the Netherlands, Slovakia, and Italy. From Ameripol, countries like Colombia, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Venezuela, and Peru were involved.

Europol contributed with Croatia and Belgium participating. Additionally, nations such as the Maldives, Jordan, and Nepal joined this extensive operation. This collaboration was crucial for gathering intelligence on emerging criminal networks.

The operation facilitated an exchange of expertise on drug smuggling techniques and unified efforts to combat narcotics. It also strengthened bilateral relations among specialised experts. This cooperation improved field coordination efficiency and enhanced joint preparedness levels.

ISA's framework was established in 2017 by France and the UAE to foster cooperation among member states against common security threats. The Alliance addresses global issues like transnational organised crime through strategic cooperation and operational field participation.

UAE's Role in Shaping Security Agendas

Beyond its primary goals, ISA plays a role in reinforcing the UAE's influence on international security agendas. It builds extensive strategic partnerships at both regional and global levels to enhance its impact.

The Alliance's efforts contribute significantly to developing proactive mechanisms for countering cross-border illicit drug flows effectively. By consolidating resources and expertise from diverse regions worldwide, ISA aims to achieve optimal results in combating criminal activities.

With inputs from WAM