Police dismantle Kota Tinggi drug operation, capturing RM2.57 million worth of ice concealed in tea bags destined for Riau Islands
In a significant operation, Malaysian authorities have arrested a local couple and a local woman for their alleged involvement in an international drug distribution syndicate targeting Indonesian islands. The suspects, a 43-year-old man, his Indonesian wife, and a woman in her 30s, were arrested last week in Bandar Penawar, Kota Tinggi, Malaysia.
The raid was conducted at a gated and guarded residential area, where the suspects' residence was used as a transit point for the repacking and storage of drugs. During the raid, police seized 80.33 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine (syabu) worth RM2.57 million. The illicit drugs were sourced from the local market and repackaged in Chinese tea packets to avoid detection.
The international distribution of methamphetamine led by the arrested couple in Johor Bahru is allegedly linked to the Southeast Asian drug trafficking organization known as the "Sam Gor" syndicate. The drugs are sold at RM32,000 per package.
Two of the three suspects tested positive for methamphetamine abuse. The suspects have been remanded until tomorrow for investigation under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 for drug trafficking.
The Indonesian woman is also being investigated under Section 6 (3) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for immigration-related offenses. Background checks revealed that the male suspect has nine prior criminal records, while the local woman has six.
Police confiscated four cars, two motorcycles, cash, and valuables worth RM410,104 believed to be linked to the suspects. The total value of the seized drugs, vehicles, motorcycles, cash, and valuables is RM3,080,204.
The syndicate had been operating since April last year and uses Johor's eastern sea routes to supply drugs to markets in Indonesia's Riau Islands and Batam. The police chief, Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad, made the statements to reporters at the Johor police contingent headquarters.
This operation marks a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking in the region and demonstrates the commitment of Malaysian authorities to ensure the safety and security of its citizens and neighbouring countries.
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