DOHA: Qatar has ranked first globally in the number of customs seizures related to combatting the smuggling of preventive and treatment products for the coronavirus, such as disinfection materials, sterilisers, masks and others.
This was revealed in the final report of the international emergency special operation (STOP), established by the World Customs Organization, the World Health Organization and Interpol. It was implemented from 11 May to 12 July this year.
The final report of the operation praised the efforts made by Qatar, confirming that it raises the status of the MENA region. It was also pointed that Qatar accounted for 198 seizures, indicating the strength of monitoring imposed by customs in Qatar on goods imported into the country, in addition to transit goods.
The report also strengthens Qatar’s position among active countries in the field of law enforcement and international cooperation and draws attention to the role of national customs cadres participating in emergency international operations.
The UK came in second place with 123 seizures, while Peru came in third with 95 seizures.