GEORGE TOWN, November 4 — The Interrogation of Narcotics Crime Division of the North-East District Police Chief, Penang, held a press conference to announce the successful bust of a major drug distribution syndicate operating on the island. The operation involved two raids in the Ayer Itam and Southwest Penang areas, resulting in the apprehension of three local men between the ages of 19 and 52 years who were involved in the distribution of heroin, methamphetamine (commonly known as syabu), and marijuana. During the operations, the police successfully dismantled a house used as a storage facility for various drugs. The haul from the raids includes:
- 40 packages of heroin, weighing an estimated 17,830 grams and valued at RM147,989.00.
- 40 packages of marijuana, weighing an estimated 37,688 grams and valued at RM116,833.00.
- 8 packages of methamphetamine (syabu), weighing an estimated 8,293 grams and valued at RM273,570.00.
- 1 plastic packet of syabu, weighing an estimated 103.82 grams and valued at RM20,764.00.
In total, the seized drugs could be used by approximately 206,510 individuals. The syndicate was found to have been operating actively in the local market since September 2023. Drug screening of urine samples from those apprehended revealed two individuals testing positive for amphetamine and methamphetamine, with one of them having a past criminal record related to drugs. All three individuals will be detained for seven days starting from November 2, 2023, for further investigations.
The police have also initiated actions under the Dangerous Drugs Act (Forfeiture of Property) 1988, leading to the seizure of one vehicle and a total cash amount of RM25,100.00. The investigation is being conducted under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the penalty of the death sentence or life imprisonment and a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane if convicted. The Royal Malaysia Police continues its efforts to eradicate drug distribution activities and maintain a drug-free community.
