# Khat smuggling seizure at O'Hare International Airport

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/khat-smuggling-seizure-at-ohare-international-airport
> Updated: 2026-08-26T02:53:12.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Authorities at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport arrested three Senegalese nationals following the seizure of approximately 1,100 pounds of khat. U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents discovered the stimulant plant, valued at over $140,000, concealed within suitcases and backpacks arriving from Dakar, Senegal. 

Two of the individuals face charges related to controlled substance trafficking. Court filings indicate one suspect claimed he believed he was transporting ‘Miranga’ tea.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-26: Three arrested at O'Hare for smuggling 1,100 pounds of khat

Three Senegalese nationals were arrested at Chicago's O'Hare Airport after CBP agents seized over 1,100 pounds of khat, an illegal stimulant, hidden in luggage arriving from Dakar.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/three-arrested-at-ohare-for-smuggling-1100-pounds-of-khat

### 2026-08-12: Cairo International Airport officials seize smuggled firearm and ammunition

Customs officials at Cairo International Airport seized a .45 caliber handgun and 11 live rounds from a passenger arriving on a flight from Chicago.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cairo-international-airport-officials-seize-smuggled-firearm-and-ammunition

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Cite as: Khat smuggling seizure at O'Hare International Airport. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/khat-smuggling-seizure-at-ohare-international-airport