Cops Foil Bid to Smuggle Syabu from Tawau to Sarawak
Drug Bust in Beluran: Syabu Seizure and Suspect Pursuit
BELURAN, June 18 — In a significant breakthrough for law enforcement, police intercepted a drug smuggling attempt in Beluran, Sabah, thwarting an effort to transport 4.072 kilograms of Syabu from Tawau to Sarawak. The operation, conducted by the General Operations Force (GOF), unfolded dramatically at the Sapi Nangoh Road Check Point (RCP) on Friday, June 14.
The Intercepted Operation
Beluran district police chief, Superintendent Hasan Majid, disclosed that the incident transpired around 11 am when officers flagged down a Proton Saga bearing registration number SYR7763 for routine inspection at the Sapi Nangoh RCP. Subsequently, they detained a 43-year-old suspect while his accomplice, identified as 27-year-old Justin Vau Langat, managed to evade capture by accelerating away from the scene.
Background of the Suspects
Justin Vau Langat, hailing from Long Nahan Baram, Sarawak, has a criminal history in Negeri Sembilan related to drug offenses under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. This history added urgency to the police operation, aimed at preventing the distribution or sale of the seized Syabu within the local market of Sarawak.
Seizure and Investigation
During the inspection, police discovered a black plastic bag in the car, purportedly containing Chinese tea packets. However, upon closer examination, these packets were found to conceal four red packets of Syabu. The street value of the seized drugs amounted to RM130,304.
Superintendent Hasan Majid emphasized that the arrested suspect, now remanded for seven days, faces charges under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Additionally, investigations revealed that he had previously been involved in two other drug-related cases and tested positive for drugs at the time of his arrest.
Call to Action
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation by contacting Investigation Officer Inspector Mohd Solahuddin Mohamad at 019-9810144 or reaching out to the Beluran district police headquarters at 089-5111222.
Impact and Implications
The successful interception underscores the vigilance of law enforcement in combatting drug trafficking activities across state borders. Superintendent Hasan Majid’s statement highlighted the collaborative efforts between agencies to curb the spread of illicit substances, safeguarding communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Future Steps
Moving forward, heightened security measures are expected to be implemented to prevent similar attempts in the region. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in maintaining law and order, particularly concerning the trafficking of dangerous substances like Syabu.
Conclusion
As the investigation progresses, the collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the public remains crucial in addressing and preventing drug-related crimes. The diligence of officers at the Sapi Nangoh RCP in Beluran reflects their commitment to ensuring a safer environment for all residents.