Georges Dib, a Lebanese food influencer with 8.7 million TikTok followers, known as 'Dr Food', has been arrested in Akkar, north Lebanon. His arrest on Sunday followed months of surveillance by security forces.
Dib had been sentenced in absentia last month to life imprisonment with hard labour for drug trafficking. Authorities allege he was involved in hiding narcotics in his pastries, chocolates, and biscuits, intended for international shipment.
The accusation is linked to a 2024 drug bust where 820kg of hashish was reportedly found hidden in cakes. Despite an arrest warrant, Dib evaded authorities for a year and a half, continuing to post videos on TikTok without addressing the allegations.
Lebanese authorities have recently increased efforts to combat drug smuggling, tightening controls at Beirut international airport and the port. This comes amid pressure from the Arab Gulf and the US to address the country's role as a drug-smuggling hub.