DUBAI // A man has been detained at Dubai International Airport after customs inspectors discovered almost 4kg of crystal meth in his luggage, a senior customs official says.
The suspect, who is in his twenties, was described as being 'of Asian origins' by the Dubai Customs department. He was en route from an Asian country when he arrived at Dubai International Airport's Terminal Two last week, said Ali Al Maghawi, director of Airport Operations at Dubai Customs.
"The passenger looked confused and unstable when he arrived at the airport, which aroused the suspicion of the Dubai Customs Operation Room at Dubai International Airport and members of the mobile team in the terminal," said Mr Al Maghawi.
"As the passenger approached the customs check point, an inspector asked him to place his luggage on the counter for inspection and to be scanned by the baggage screening device".
Mr Al Maghawi said an abnormal density in the periphery of the bag was revealed.
"After removing the edges of the suitcase, a plastic bag containing a snow-coloured substance was found. The substance was later found to be narco-crystals, weighing nearly 3.75kg."
During questioning, customs officials said the man claimed the bags belonged to another person in his home country.
The narcotics were destined for another country in East Asia.
The suspect has been handed over to Dubai Police for further investigation.
Mr Al Maghawi said his department carries out specialised courses in detecting drugs, various methods of concealing drugs and behavioural patterns of individuals who smuggle these items.
