Security forces carry out raids, apprehend drug traffickers

AMMAN — A specialised security force, supported by the Anti-Narcotics Department, conducted a series of campaigns and raids in remote desert areas in the Ruwaished region, the Public Security Directorate's (PSD) spokesperson stated.

The crackdown, initiated on Wednesday morning, aimed to apprehend a notorious group of drug traffickers and smugglers who had evaded capture since security operations commenced in the Ruwaished region several months ago, the spokesperson said, adding that the operation, based on months of intelligence work, has successfully identified the individuals' hideouts in the rugged desert area, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

During the confrontation, the wanted individuals engaged in direct gunfire against the security forces. However, the security forces implemented to rules of engagement, resulting in the arrest of the suspects without any reported injuries to security personnel, the spokesperson said. One of the wanted individuals was injured and transported for medical attention, he added.

The spokesperson said that nine individuals, six of whom were deemed extremely dangerous and armed, were arrested in the operation with investigation revealing their direct links to regional drug gangs and smugglers along the northeastern border. 

“Several of them played a significant role in receiving and storing illicit drugs within the Kingdom, preparing them for unlawful transport to neighbouring countries or engaging in domestic trafficking,” the spokesperson said.

Those arrested were found in possession of 720,000 illicit pills, 1,565 palm-sized sheets of hashish, 21 firearms, large quantities of ammunition, as well as communication and surveillance equipment, the spokesperson said.

The PSD reiterated its commitment to pursuing drug traffickers and thwarting their operations, regardless of where they attempt to hide.