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Army thwarts drug smuggling attempt using remote-controlled balloons
By JT - May 24,2025 - Last updated at May 24,2025

The army intercepts drug-laden balloons in a smuggling attempt foiled along the Kingdom's eastern border (Photo courtesy of JAF)
AMMAN — The Eastern Military Zone's personnel on Saturday thwarted a smuggling attempt, intercepting narcotics that were being transported across the border using remotely controlled balloons, according to an army statement.
A military source at the General Command of the Jordan Armed Forces – Arab Army (JAF) said that border guard units, in coordination with military security agencies and the Anti-Narcotics Department, detected a group of balloons within their area of responsibility.
The forces intercepted the balloons and recovered their payload inside Jordanian territory. Upon inspection, the balloons were found to be equipped with remote guidance systems and loaded with illegal substances, which were seized and handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation, the source added.
The statement emphasised the commitment of the JAF to enhancing border security systems to combat infiltration and smuggling, reaffirming that border guard personnel remain vigilant and prepared to counter any threat to the security of the Kingdom and its citizens.