KUCHING, March 19: The police have thwarted drug distribution activities by modifying gas cylinders to store and transport methamphetamine aimed for neighbouring countries, resulting in the arrest of four individuals, and the seizure of drugs, jewelry and vehicles.
Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director CP Dato Khaw Kok Chin stated that four men and two women were arrested for their alleged involvement in drug distribution.
During a raid in Miri on Sunday (March 17), 21.7 kilogrammes of methamphetamine estimated to be worth RM716,000 were seized.
The raid was jointly conducted by police from the NCID Sarawak Contingent headquarters and Miri District Divisional headquarters.
In the operation, RM52,000 in cash, jewelry worth approximately RM54,941.40 and four vehicles valued at RM194,000 were also seized.
“The amount of drugs seized is believed to be sufficient for 108,500 drug abusers.
“The modus operandi employed by the syndicate involved obtaining drug supplies from Peninsular Malaysia and modifying gas cylinders to store and transport the drugs to an identified location before marketing them to neighbouring countries,” he said in a statement after holding a press conference at the Sarawak police headquarters today.
Khaw added that the syndicate is believed to have been active since early this year.
The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, with the suspects remanded for three days beginning March 18 until 21 to assist investigations.
Urine tests results showed one of the suspects testing positive for methamphetamine use, while another suspect has a serious criminal record under Section 3(1) of the Prevention Of Cruelty to Animals Act 1953.
“The police will continue to investigate to detect and apprehend the remaining members in the syndicate and bring them to justice,” affirmed Khaw. — DayakDaily
