In the attempts to import 68.4kg of black magic goods, officers also confiscated sorcery knives, needles, ampoules full of animal blood and other liquids, animal hair, bones and drawings, pieces of metal, rings and magic techniques books.

 

“Attempts to bring these prohibited materials into the country in various ways are considered smuggling in accordance with the unified customs law,” Mr Ahmad said.

 

He said an African woman who was caught in 2018 carrying 10.8kg of black magic items was also detected a year later trying to smuggle 8.4kg of similar objects and books.

 

Mr Ahmad said well-trained customs officers depend primarily on their skills in reading body language to detect who might be carrying such items before screening and manually checking luggage.

 

“Training happens with help from the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai,” he said.

 

“Once confiscated, items are referred to relevant authorities to be dealt with.”