Syrian nationals arrested by the Lebanese army while attempting to enter Lebanon informally, Aug. 12, 2023. (Credit: Lebanese army website)
BEIRUT — The Lebanese army announced that it conducted 'various missions' Friday and Saturday, arresting Syrian nationals attempting to enter Lebanon, seizing weapons and drugs from individuals in Tripoli, intercepting a Captagon shipment, and more. In a statement published on X (aka Twitter) Saturday, the military detailed these operations, which aim to combat human and drug trafficking at the border and to apprehend those threatening national security.
The army arrested a total of 150 Syrian nationals in Shadra, Akkar, as well as in Kherbet Remmaneh and Aandkit, "while attempting to illegally enter Lebanon," the statement said.
In Tripoli, the army arrested four individuals suspected of discharging firearms. "Kalashnikovs were seized in their possession, along with ammunition and keif" (tobacco mixed with dried cannabis).
The army also seized 23 kilograms of keif in Wadi Zamrani, near Arsal, Bekaa Valley, as well as 3,000 Captagon pills. Intercepted while being transported by motorcycle, the merchandise was confiscated.
Investigations have been launched to follow up on these incidents. Earlier in Saturday, the army announced foiling an attempted informal sea migration from Sheikh Zennad, Akkar. The army arrested 130 Syrian nationals and five Lebanese nationals.