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- Army tightens border security as smuggling networks adopt sophisticated tactics
- Border Guard forces down 56 drones, seize 11 million Captagon pills
AMMAN — Director of Land Operations for the Jordan Armed Forces- Arab Army (JAF) Gen. Yaseen Qudah said on Tuesday that Border Guard Forces dealt with 231 smuggling and infiltration attempts during the first half of 2026.
Speaking to Al Mamlakah TV, Qudah added the Border Guards seized 11 million Captagon pills, 14 kilogrammes of narcotic substances, including hydro and crystal methamphetamine, as well as 1,670 hashish slabs during the same period.
He said that Border Guard Forces also downed 56 drones, seized 125 GPS devices and confiscated a number of weapons.
Qudah also noted that Jordan’s borders continue to face evolving security challenges, particularly the growing number of smuggling attempts and the use of simultaneous operations to traffic drugs and weapons.
He added that organised smuggling networks are employing sophisticated and varied methods in their attempts to infiltrate the Kingdom’s borders.
Qudah reaffirmed that the JAF, in cooperation with other security agencies, continue to safeguard the Kingdom’s borders and protect its security and stability.
“Infiltration and smuggling remain among the most significant security challenges facing the Kingdom,” he said.
He added that Border Guard Forces maintain round-the-clock surveillance along Jordan’s 1,744-kilometre border, monitoring suspicious activities and attempted crossings through an integrated security and military system designed to ensure a swift and effective response to potential threats.
Qudah highlighted the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by smuggling networks in recent years, which have prompted enhanced operational measures and greater coordination among relevant agencies.
He stressed that the Jordan Armed Forces have thwarted several smuggling attempts through accurate intelligence and the professionalism of their personnel, contributing to stronger border security and efforts to combat organised criminal networks.
Qudah said the JAF continue to adapt their plans and operational procedures to evolving smuggling methods, supported by intelligence capabilities and modern technologies that strengthen monitoring and response efforts.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen JAF’s operational and technological capabilities, aimed at enhancing the readiness of Border Guard Forces and supporting their role in protecting the Kingdom’s security and stability.
“Border Guard Forces use advanced surveillance technologies, including thermal cameras, radars and drones, to monitor border areas and detect suspicious movements,” he added.
He explained that threats vary across Jordan’s border fronts, with military regions facing different smuggling and infiltration challenges.
Qudah highlighted the role of advanced surveillance and monitoring systems in detecting and foiling attempts by organised smuggling networks.
