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Sarawak Customs Department’s Largest Drug Haul of the Year
KUCHING: In a significant breakthrough, the Sarawak Customs Department has seized 60.67kg of methamphetamine valued at RM1.9 million, marking its largest drug haul of the year. The operation, which led to the arrest of two local men, underscores the relentless efforts of the authorities in combating the drug menace in the region.
Operation Details and Arrest
Tip-Off Leads to Major Seizure
Acting on a tip-off, the enforcement and narcotics branches of the Sarawak Customs Department intercepted a drug smuggling attempt outside a cargo company last Thursday (July 4) around 3.50 pm. The joint task force on narcotics successfully detained two suspects, aged between 20 and 22, after discovering 10 suspicious boxes inside a bonded lorry.
The Discovery: 60 ‘Guan Yin Wang’ Packages
Detailed Inspection Reveals Methamphetamine
During the inspection of the boxes, the authorities uncovered 60 ‘Guan Yin Wang’ packages containing crystalline substances believed to be methamphetamine. These packages, labelled with 222 and AAA, weigh a total of 60.67kg and carry an estimated street value of RM1,907,600. Each package is said to be worth around RM30,000.
Sarawak Customs Department director Norizan Yahya emphasized the significance of the seizure, stating, “Based on the weight of the drugs, it is estimated that 303,000 people have been spared from the scourge of drug abuse.”
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Legal Proceedings and Further Investigations
Charges Under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952
The drugs and the vehicle were seized under Section 30 (1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Both suspects are currently being remanded to facilitate investigations aimed at uncovering any links to drug syndicates.
“With such a significant amount of drugs, we do not rule out the possibility of many individuals being involved. Investigating officers are looking into several aspects, and we are optimistic that this case will be resolved soon,” Norizan added.
Modus Operandi: False Declarations and Household Item Concealment
Innovative Smuggling Techniques
Norizan highlighted the evolving tactics of drug smugglers, noting that the latest modus operandi involves bringing in drugs from Malaya via cargo services. The smugglers make false declarations on the Customs Form No. 3 and conceal narcotics among household items to evade detection.
The Dangerous Drugs Act 1952: Severe Penalties
Legal Ramifications
The case is being investigated under Section 39B(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. This section of the law carries severe penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment and lashes of the cane, reflecting the gravity of drug trafficking offenses in Malaysia.
Conclusion
Vigilance and Cooperation: Key to Success
The successful operation in Kuching underscores the importance of vigilance and cooperation among various law enforcement agencies. The Sarawak Customs Department’s largest drug haul of the year is a testament to their commitment to eradicating the drug menace and safeguarding the community from the dangers of drug abuse.
As investigations continue, the authorities remain determined to bring all involved parties to justice and prevent future drug trafficking attempts. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, contributing to a safer and drug-free society.
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