.png)
SHAH ALAM – A Malaysian is among 13 people detained by Lao authorities after 521 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine were seized from a private jet that reportedly arrived from Malaysia at Luang Prabang International Airport.
The Star, quoting Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, reported that preliminary investigations found that the aircraft, a Learjet, had departed from Subang for Luang Prabang International Airport.
However, Hussein clarified that the Malaysian suspect did not travel on the flight.
“So far, we have not received detailed information from the Laotian drug enforcement authorities. Based on the information we have right now, one of the 13 individuals detained is a Malaysian,” he was quoted as saying.
Earlier, the Vientiane Times, citing the Lao Security Newspaper, reported that an operation was carried out on Oct 1 after provincial police received a tip-off about a syndicate planning to smuggle narcotics across borders using a private aircraft bearing flight registration N73GP.
During the operation, officers discovered 23 suitcases containing 500 packs of crystal methamphetamine weighing a combined 521 kilogrammes.
“21 of the 23 suitcases contained white crystalline substances that were identified as crystal methamphetamine,” the report said.
The remaining two suitcases reportedly contained ordinary personal belongings.
According to the reports, authorities are continuing to question the 13 suspects and coordinate with relevant agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the suspected drug trafficking operation.
