Captured “candy machines” meant to bring drugs to Lebanon

The Lebanese customs services began to doubt that two Chinese-made machines that arrived in the country on Wednesday were actually for use in confection making, as described on the billet.

Initial investigations into the mystery machines concluded that the machines were likely used in the production of counterfeit medications. Using a part from one of the machines, Investigators then discovered that the devices are actually used in the processing of illegal drugs.  

Deputy General-Director of Customs Affairs, Shafik Ibrahim, told reporters that the devices in question are un-used, adding that had the criminal networks been able to use them, they could have made a huge sum of drugs.  Following the investigation, a suspect (initials M.S.) and his alleged co-conspirators were arrested.

The concerned authorities are still on the lookout for the two individuals who attempted to import the machinery and the counter-narcotics bureau is leading the case.

Although the Customs Affairs general-director said there is no link between this particular case and the recent string of arrests in Sarba, exclusive sources told LBCI that a link does exist.