RANAU: A 27-year-old local man was arrested after police uncovered an alleged ketum processing and distribution operation during a raid at a village in the district.
The operation, carried out by the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division (NCID) of the Ranau District Police Headquarters (IPD), took place at about noon following continuous intelligence gathering and information received from members of the public.
During the raid, police seized four 1.5-litre mineral water bottles containing processed ketum drink, a plastic bag containing about one kilogramme of ketum leaves, a green gas cylinder, a cooking stove and a pot believed to have been used in the preparation of the ketum drink.
The suspect was detained to facilitate investigations. Police said the processing and possession of ketum juice is an offence under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952, which carries a maximum fine of RM100,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both upon conviction.
Ranau District Police Chief Supt. Mursalin Mahmud said the district police would continue intensifying enforcement operations to curb illegal activities involving ketum and other drug-related offences in an effort to safeguard the wellbeing of the community.
He said the latest operation reflected the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence efforts and close cooperation between police and members of the public.
“The police remain committed to taking firm action against those involved in activities that violate the law. We will continue to strengthen enforcement and monitoring efforts to ensure the safety and security of the people in Ranau,” he said.
Supt Mursalin also emphasised the importance of community participation in crime prevention, describing the public as the “eyes and ears” of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
He said timely information provided by the community enabled police to act swiftly, prevent criminal activities and maintain peace and public order.
He added that the role of police officers serving as Village Sector Liaison Officers went beyond routine visits, as the initiative helped strengthen relationships with local communities while fostering greater trust and cooperation in addressing security concerns.
Members of the public with information on drug trafficking, ketum-related activities or other criminal offences are urged to contact the Ranau IPD Operations Room at 088-875222. Police assured that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.