Marib — Saudi border forces have intercepted a major drug smuggling operation along the southern frontier with Yemen, confiscating more than 829 kilograms of khat, a stimulant plant banned in the Kingdom.

The seizures occurred over the past three days in multiple sectors of the Jazan and Asir regions, including Al-Dayer, Al-Ardah, and Al-Raboa. Security patrols apprehended 18 Ethiopian nationals and one Saudi citizen suspected of involvement in the trafficking network.

Khat, widely consumed in parts of East Africa and Yemen, is classified as a narcotic in Saudi Arabia due to its psychoactive properties. Authorities say the smugglers attempted to exploit rugged terrain and informal border crossings to move the contraband into the Kingdom.

The General Directorate of Narcotics Control confirmed that all suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecution, and the seized materials are undergoing forensic analysis. The operation is part of a broader crackdown on cross-border drug trafficking, which has intensified amid rising regional instability.

Saudi officials reiterated their commitment to securing the border and preventing the flow of illicit substances, calling on citizens to report suspicious activity through designated hotlines.