Al-Waeli Stresses Firm Action Against Smuggling and Negligence, Emphasizes Accountability at Border Crossings

Omar Adnan Al-Waeli, Head of the Border Ports Authority, affirmed on Sunday an absolute zero-tolerance policy towards smuggling and negligence, emphasizing strict legal accountability. Al-Waeli clarified that border crossings serve as the first line of defense for the state's security and economy. Al-Waeli conducted a surprise field visit to the Al-Shaib border crossing in Maysan Governorate to monitor the implementation of government directives and directly supervise their application by all departments operating at the crossing. The visit included a tour of the crossing's squares and sections to observe work procedures, discipline levels, and control over goods movement. This was followed by an extensive meeting with directors and representatives of the operating departments, during which it was stressed that enforcing control, preventing smuggling, protecting public funds, and maximizing non-oil revenues are direct responsibilities that tolerate no leniency or negligence. Al-Waeli underscored the necessity of full adherence to government directives issued by the office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, particularly those related to activating the security and intelligence role within border crossings. The head of the authority directed security and intelligence agencies to activate their field and intelligence roles at the crossings, continuously monitor people and goods movement, and ensure no prohibited or illicit materials pass through. He also mandated submitting regular and direct reports to the border crossing director, who heads the intelligence cell, warning that concerned agencies would bear full legal responsibility for any security breach or illegal passage. Regarding customs, Al-Waeli stressed obliging General Customs Authority employees to conduct precise customs inspections on all imported goods without exception. He prohibited the passage of any truck before the completion of entry procedures, actual verification, and matching cargo details with documents and customs declarations. He also highlighted the importance of the presence of officers from the National Intelligence Service and the National Security Service within customs inspection and exchange areas, to enhance security and intelligence integration, elevate oversight levels, and prevent the exploitation of crossings for smuggling prohibited materials or engaging in any illegal activity. Al-Waeli reiterated that border crossings represent the first line of defense for the state's security and economy, and that the implementation of government directives is a shared responsibility among all operating departments. He further affirmed that the current stage demands the highest degrees of vigilance and discipline, asserting that there is no room for leniency in protecting public funds or allowing any avenue for smuggling or legal transgressions. This visit falls within the ongoing field follow-up by the head of the Border Ports Authority, to assess the operational reality, address shortcomings, and enhance performance efficiency. This aligns with the government's objectives of tightening control over border crossings, bolstering border security, and maximizing non-oil revenues.