Dubai Customs seized over 3200 white weapons and laser pointers from travelers coming into the country through Dubai International Airport, all three terminals, during 2012 and the first quarter of 2013 – a total of 15 months- as part of its efforts exerted to protect the society against infiltration of locally and internationally prohibited and restricted items.
Ali Al Maghawi, Director of Airport Operations Department at Dubai Customs, said that bladed weapons and laser pointers were found with travelers of different ages and nationalities, who hid them in their luggage and personal belongings. However, the alertness of Dubai Customs inspectors prevented their entry into the country and shielded the community from the deadly consequences of their use, especially by youths and juvenile delinquents who are indifferent to their own as well as others safety and do not abide by the laws prohibiting their possession or use.
He also noted that seizures included laser pointers and white weapons, namely swords, knives, daggers, sharp handgrips, batons and iron sticks. He stated that, with the knowledge of Dubai Customs inspectors, 2526 weapons were seized at DIA during 2012,of which 1888 were laser pointers and 638 were bladed weapons, while during the first quarter of 2013, 682 seizures of this kind were made, with 515 laser pointers and 167 white weapons.
Chart showing number of laser pointers seizures during 2012 and first quarter of 2013
Al Maghawi ascertained that Dubai Customs exerts stringent efforts to prevent crimes involving bladed weapons by foiling attempts to smuggle these weapons through all customs ports, which is in line with its role and key responsibility as the first defense line for the society, in parallel with its commitment to ensure swift movement of people and goods through simplified procedures. Dubai Customs will always live up to its reputation and fulfill its responsibility to the community.
Chart showing number of white weapons seizures during 2012 and first quarter of 2013
Al Maghawi added that Dubai Customs invests in its human force, most importantly its customs inspection cadre by choosing them well and honing their skills through regular training courses specialized in inspection procedures, identification of prohibited materials, seizure procedures and dealing with passengers. Besides, the Department equips all customs ports with latest inspection and examination devices that help inspectors perform their duties to the fullest.