The remit of the Customs Operations Department within the Malta Tax and Customs Administration is to promote and facilitate legitimate trade, while protecting the citizen and society, the territory, and its fiscal interests. 

The protection of citizens and society can take many forms and is an ongoing challenge in today’s highly mobile trade and passenger movements environment. However, using intelligence and risk management techniques, and supported by non-intrusive control equipment, high risk areas can be targeted effectively. 

An area of particular concern for Customs and which requires continuous focus is the fight against drug trafficking. Operations targeting narcotics are conducted on a daily basis and every effort is made to keep up with the changing trends and methodologies. 

During this year, there were various notable seizures of narcotics at the Freeport, other Seaports, and the Airport totalling to 1.2 tonnes of cocaine, 4.3 tons of cannabis resin, 200 kilos of herbal cannabis, and 139 pre-rolled joints. Apart from the traditional concealments, perpetrators are sometimes using ingeniously built structures to distract and mislead the authorities, and using methods that were not seen before, both locally and abroad. We pride to say that an experienced and knowledgeable Team of Customs officers, complemented by operational staff, led to the discovery of the drugs which were at times meticulously hidden. 

Our list includes other notable seizures made in 2024, and which traditionally make their way to Malta in smaller quantities, and when accrued together amount to 285 kilograms of magic mushrooms, 16 kilograms of cannabis buds and 118 packets of cannabidiol. 

Important to say that after every find, Customs immediately informs the Police so that they conduct the necessary investigations from their side. 

Customs Operations is determined to continue in its fight against drug trafficking, and is planning to upscale investment in information technology, equipment, and canines. Furthermore, we see it appropriate to give the necessary training to officers, so as to keep abreast with developments, and maintain our rate of success.