By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 5: The General Operations Force (GOF) Sarawak will be deployed to help curb drug smuggling via air, following growing concerns about such illicit activities in Miri, which has become known as a “drug haven”, according to the authorities.
In a news report by RTM Sarawak, Royal Malaysia Police Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director Dato Seri Khaw Kok Chin stated that this measure is being implemented due to concerns that Miri’s relatively lax screening system has made it a target for smugglers, compared to other air borders in the State.
“We are currently strengthening inspections in Miri. If cargo comes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), it arrives and passes through without a second inspection.
“Therefore, we are enhancing our efforts with narcotics enforcement, and we may request assistance from the GOF,” he said during a working visit to the GOF Sarawak Brigade headquarters today.
In addition to air borders, the Department will also boost inspection capabilities at ports through new strategies.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak government has allocated RM1.77 million for the procurement of 19 units of Instant Visual Drug Detectors (IVDD) and two units of handheld backscatter devices to enhance the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the NCID Sarawak in combating drug-related crimes.
Khaw further mentioned that the Public Service Department Malaysia has also approved the gradual increase in NCID personnel, with priority given to Sarawak and Sabah.
“To date, 12 positions have been filled across 10 districts in Sarawak, including Matu Daro, Simunjan, Meradong, Saratok, Lubok Antu, Julau, Dalat, Kanowit, Song, and Tatau,” he said in a statement.
In addition, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has contributed four 4WD vehicles, worth RM639,934, to the Narcotics Nucleus Secretariat Sarawak to bolster efforts in combating drugs along the Sarawak border areas.
During the visit, a total of 28 senior police officers, 36 junior police officers, and four civil servants from NCID Sarawak, GOF Sabah and Sarawak, and Simunjan Police Headquarters, who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, integrity, and commitment, particularly in drug enforcement efforts in Sarawak and border areas, were awarded appreciation letters by Khaw.
From Jan 1 to Nov 30, 2024, NCID Sarawak arrested 9,884 individuals for various narcotics-related offenses, including 492 drug dealers.
The department seized a total of 269.8 kg of Syabu, 57.8 kg of ecstasy pills, 18.9 kg of MDMA juice, 6.8 kg of marijuana, 1.8 kg of ketamine, 143 hemp (cannabis) plants, and 93 liters of kratom.
The total value of drugs seized during this period amounted to approximately RM37.24 million.
In its efforts to dismantle the financial resources of drug trafficking syndicates, the department also seized various assets worth approximately RM4.104 million.
The NCID encourages the public to continue reporting information on drug trafficking activities in their communities. Tips can be submitted via the JSJN hotline at 012-208 7222. — DayakDaily
