Lebanon: Army Uncovers Massive Captagon Production Facility in 300-Meter Tunnel

Lebanese Army Dismantles Massive Captagon Factory in Bekaa valley

BREAKING NEWS: In a important blow to drug trafficking operations, the Lebanese Army announced today the discovery and dismantling of a massive Captagon production facility in the Al-Yamouneh region of the Baalbek district.The operation,conducted on July 13,2025,following precise intelligence from the Directorate of Intelligence,resulted in the seizure of one of the largest Captagon laboratories ever uncovered in Lebanon.

A patrol from the Directorate, reinforced by an army unit, executed a large-scale raid on the main factory. Inside, they found extensive equipment used in the illicit manufacturing process, estimated to weigh approximately 10 tons. due to its direct use in producing narcotic drugs, a portion of this machinery was destroyed on-site.

The prosperous raid yielded a considerable quantity of Captagon pills, along with crystal methamphetamine and various other illicit substances. Further adding to the sophistication of the operation,the army uncovered and destroyed a tunnel roughly 300 meters long. This tunnel served as a hidden entry and exit point for the factory, and was also utilized for storing equipment and materials, highlighting a high level of organization and secrecy employed by the network.

Seized materials have been handed over to the competent judicial authorities, and investigations are now underway to apprehend all individuals implicated in this illegal enterprise.

Evergreen insights:

The dismantling of such large-scale drug manufacturing operations underscores the persistent global challenge of synthetic drug production and trafficking. Captagon, a stimulant ofen referred to as the “Jihad drug,” has been a significant concern for regional and international stability, fueling conflict and organized crime.

This seizure serves as a stark reminder of the intricate and often technologically advanced methods employed by drug cartels. The discovery of a lengthy, hidden tunnel points to the lengths to which these organizations will go to maintain secrecy and evade detection. It also highlights the critical importance of robust intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation in combating this pervasive threat.

The Lebanese Army’s commitment to tackling these networks, despite the complex security landscape, demonstrates the vital role national security forces play in disrupting the financial flows that underpin terrorism and organized crime. Moreover, the destruction of manufacturing equipment directly hinders the capacity of these groups to produce and distribute illicit substances, offering a degree of long-term impact beyond the immediate seizures. The ongoing investigations are crucial to dismantling the entire supply chain, from production to distribution, and bringing perpetrators to justice.

How might the finding of this facility impact Lebanon’s reputation regarding drug trafficking?

The Discovery & Scale of the Operation

On July 15, 2025, the Lebanese Army announced the discovery of a notable Captagon production facility hidden within a 300-meter tunnel. This operation represents one of the largest seizures of its kind in Lebanon, highlighting the growing problem of illicit drug manufacturing and trafficking within the country. Initial reports indicate the facility was capable of producing substantial quantities of the amphetamine-type stimulant, Captagon.

The tunnel’s length and complexity suggest a refined operation, requiring significant planning and resources.Authorities are currently investigating the infrastructure supporting the facility, including potential power sources, ventilation systems, and logistical networks used for transporting raw materials and finished products.The location of the tunnel remains undisclosed for security reasons,but sources suggest its situated in an area known for challenging terrain,likely chosen to provide concealment.

What is Captagon? Understanding the Drug & its Impact

Captagon, originally a brand name for a medication containing amphetamine, has become almost exclusively associated with illicitly produced amphetamine, phenethylamine, and methamphetamine mixtures. While the original pharmaceutical product was used to treat conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, the Captagon circulating today bears little resemblance to the original drug.

here’s a breakdown of key facts about Captagon:

Chemical Composition: primarily amphetamine, but frequently enough cut with other substances.

Effects: Produces feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and alertness. However, it also carries significant health risks, including cardiovascular problems, psychosis, and addiction.

Regional Impact: The drug is especially prevalent in the Middle East, with Syria being a major production hub. Lebanon’s increasing role in Captagon production is a growing concern.

Financial Implications: The illicit Captagon trade generates substantial revenue for criminal organizations, fueling instability and conflict. Estimates suggest billions of dollars are generated annually.

Lebanon’s Growing Role in Captagon Production & trafficking

For years, Syria has been the primary source of Captagon destined for regional markets, particularly the Gulf states. Though, recent evidence suggests a shift, with Lebanon increasingly being used for both production and transit. Several factors contribute to this trend:

Political Instability: Lebanon’s ongoing political and economic crisis creates a permissive environment for illicit activities.

Porous Borders: Lebanon’s borders are arduous to control, facilitating the movement of materials and finished products.

Economic Incentives: The dire economic situation in Lebanon provides a strong incentive for individuals and groups to engage in lucrative,albeit illegal,activities like drug production.

Syrian Displacement: The presence of a large Syrian refugee population in lebanon presents challenges for security forces and can be exploited by criminal networks.

The Army’s Operation: Details & Challenges

The Lebanese Army’s operation to uncover the Captagon facility involved a coordinated effort utilizing intelligence gathering and specialized units. The 300-meter tunnel presented significant challenges:

1. Tunnel navigation: Navigating the lengthy and potentially booby-trapped tunnel required specialized equipment and expertise.
2. Evidence Collection: Securing and documenting the evidence within the facility was crucial for prosecution.
3. Security Concerns: The possibility of armed resistance from those operating the facility necessitated a cautious approach.
4. Chemical Hazards: Handling the precursor chemicals and finished captagon products posed health risks to personnel.

The army reported seizing a large quantity of Captagon pills, along with the machinery and chemicals used in its production. Several individuals were arrested in connection with the operation, and investigations are ongoing to identify the masterminds behind the facility.

Regional Implications & International Response

The discovery of this Captagon production facility has significant regional implications. The increased production in Lebanon threatens to exacerbate the drug problem in neighboring countries and further destabilize the region.

Gulf States: Gulf countries are the primary market for Captagon, and increased supply could lead to a surge in addiction rates and related social problems.

Syria: The shift in production to Lebanon could indicate a disruption in Syrian Captagon manufacturing, potentially due to increased pressure from international sanctions or internal conflicts.

International cooperation: Addressing the Captagon trade requires international cooperation, including intelligence sharing, law enforcement collaboration, and efforts to disrupt the flow of precursor chemicals.

Several international organizations and governments have expressed concern over the growing Captagon trade and offered assistance to lebanon in combating the problem. The United States, in particular, has been vocal about the need to address the issue, offering support for Lebanese security forces and imposing sanctions on individuals and entities involved in the drug trade.

Precursor Chemicals: The Supply Chain Vulnerability

A critical aspect of combating Captagon production lies in disrupting the supply of precursor chemicals. These chemicals,often sourced from Europe and Asia,are essential for manufacturing the drug.

Common precursor chemicals used in Captagon production include:

Ephedrine & Pseudoephedrine: Used as key ingredients in the synthesis of amphetamine.

Phenylacetic Acid: Another crucial precursor chemical.

Acetic Anhydride: Used in the acetylation process.

strengthening border controls, implementing stricter regulations on the sale and distribution of these chemicals, and enhancing international cooperation to track and intercept shipments are vital steps in curbing Captagon production.

Future Outlook: Challenges