Royal Police Apprehend Group of Six for Smuggling Alcoholic Beverages into Oman

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has arrested six people for attempting to smuggle large quantities of alcoholic beverages into Musandam Governorate.

A team of Coast Guard police apprehended six individuals of Asian origin on two separate boats while they were in the process of smuggling a significant quantity of alcohol.

This is not an isolated incident, as previous reports indicate similar attempts to smuggle alcohol into the region. The ROP's continued vigilance in combating such activities underscores their commitment to maintaining law and order within the country.

ROP said in a statement: "Coast Guard police boats led by Musandam Governorate Police arrested six Asian nationals on board two boats while they were trying to smuggle large quantities of alcoholic beverages. Legal procedures are being completed against them."

Omani Penal Code: Provisions, Penalties

The Omani Penal Code criminalises the consumption of alcohol, imposing penalties on those who consume or deal in it.

Article 286 of the Penal Code specifically addresses alcohol consumption, stipulating a sentence of imprisonment for no less than one month and no more than six months, and a fine of no less than OMR100 and no more than OMR500, or either of these penalties.

This article covers anyone who consumes alcohol or intoxicating drinks in a public place, anyone found drunk in a public place, and anyone who causes a disturbance or disrupts public peace due to drunkenness.

Article 285 addresses the commercial and production aspects of alcohol, prescribing a prison sentence of no less than six months and no more than three years, and a fine of no less than OMR 300 and no more than OMR 1,000, or either of these penalties.

This applies to anyone who possesses, manufactures, imports, or deals in liquor; anyone who establishes or maintains a place for alcohol consumption; and anyone engaging in alcohol-related activities without a licence from the competent authorities.

The law also includes provisions for the confiscation of liquor, equipment, materials, and means used in its production or transportation, as well as the closure of the premises where the crime occurred.

Article 287 covers serving alcohol to minors, prescribing a punishment of imprisonment for no less than one month and no more than one year, and a fine of no less than OMR 100 and no more than OMR 1,000, or either of these penalties.

This applies to anyone who offers alcohol or intoxicating drinks to a person under 18 years of age, or incites them to consume it. The closure of the establishment where the crime occurred may also be ordered.

For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.