TUARAN: More than 11 tonnes of processed ketum powder, believed to be awaiting distribution, were seized during a raid on premises along Jalan Tuaran here recently.
According to Info X, the 11.45-tonne seizure is believed to be among the largest ketum seizures recorded in Sabah, with the powder alone estimated to be worth RM1.145 million.
The total value of the seizure, including a vehicle, exceeded RM1.4 million.
The operation, conducted at about 6am by the Marine Police (PPM) together with the Tuaran Police Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID), followed intelligence gathering.
Police inspected the premises and a lorry and found a large quantity of processed and packed ketum powder believed to be intended for distribution.
PPM Region Four commander ACP Ahmad Amri Abd Rahman said a total of 11,450kg of ketum powder was seized, while four individuals — three men aged between 23 and 46 and a 28-year-old woman — were detained to assist investigations.
Preliminary urine screening found that all four tested negative for drugs.
Ahmad Amri said the case is being investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952, while investigations are continuing with the Sabah NCID to identify other members of the suspected syndicate and curb the misuse of ketum in various forms.
