Interpol hails ROP’s efforts in dismantling international drug cartel

MUSCAT: The International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) has commended the efforts of the Royal Oman Police (ROP), represented by Interpol Muscat, in dismantling a criminal network involved in human trafficking and drug smuggling.

The case involved a victim who was allegedly lured to Oman under the pretext of employment before being forced to swallow capsules filled with drugs for international trafficking.

A human trafficking ring that forced a victim to swallow drugs to smuggle them internationally has been dismantled thanks to the collaboration of authorities in Oman and Zimbabwe, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), said on X (formerly Twitter).

In June, police in Zimbabwe alerted their international counterparts and INTERPOL about a case involving a victim lured to Oman under the pretense of employment. During a layover, the victim was intercepted by members of a criminal network and forced to swallow drug-filled capsules for the onward journey. Upon arrival, the victim was made to expel the drugs, which were destined for distribution in the region, the Interpol said.

It added that a swift investigation in the Sultanate of Oman, with support from Interpol, led to the arrest of four individuals, the seizure of drugs and the rescue of the victim.