Tuaran: The Marine Police Force (PPM) Region 4 Sabah seized 11.45 tonnes of ketum leaf powder worth an estimated RM1.145 million in a raid at a premises along Jalan Tuaran, here, recently.
The operation, conducted jointly with Tuaran district police Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) was carried out at 6am on Aug. 6 following intelligence on the storage and distribution of ketum powder.
According to a statement issued by PPM Region 4 Sabah, Saturday, checks at the premises and a lorry led to the discovery of large quantities of ketum leaf powder believed processed and packed for distribution.
The total seizure comprised 11,450kg of ketum powder, while the value of the seized items, including the vehicle, was estimated at more than RM1.4 million.
Four people, comprising three men aged between 23 and 46 and a 28-year-old woman, were detained. All four tested negative for drugs.
The case is being investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952.
Further investigations are being conducted with the Sabah NCID to identify the syndicate involved and other members of the group.
PPM Region 4 Sabah said it would continue strengthening intelligence gathering and cooperation with other enforcement agencies to curb the illegal storage and distribution of ketum.
In LAHAD DATU, police arrested four individuals following Op Tapis carried out across the district on Friday where 92 packs of Ketum powder weighing 92kg were seized.
District Police Chief, Asst Comm. Dzulbaharin Ismail said police also seized 0.12 grams of substance believed to be Syabu and some equipment used in drug activities.
“One of the four suspects was tested positive for Amphetamine and Methamphetamine,” he said, adding that the Ketum powder was estimated worth RM9,200.
Dzulbaharin said the cases would be investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poison Act 1952, Section 12(2) and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drug Act 1952.
All the suspects were detained to assist in investigation and police will apply for remand for further action.
Dzulbaharin said police would intensify operations and enforcement to curb drug activities in this district.
In RANAU, district police arrested a local man for alleged processing and selling ketum on Thursday.
The operation by officers from the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division (NCID), resulted in the seizure of seven 1.5-litre mineral water bottles filled with processed ketum juice which were stored inside a refrigerator.
Officers also confiscated a green gas cylinder, a cooking stove and a cooking pot believed used in the preparation and processing of the prohibited substance.
The successful operation was the result of continuous intelligence gathering and information provided by members of the public.
Under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952, the processing and possession of ketum juice is an offence. Individuals convicted under the provision face a maximum fine of RM100,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
Ranau District Police Chief Supt Mursalin Mahmud reaffirmed the police’s commitment to intensifying enforcement operations against illegal activities, particularly those involving ketum.
Supt Mursalin also highlighted the importance of the Police’s Village Sector Liaison Officer programme, describing regular visits to villages as more than routine engagements.
“These visits are a symbol of our ongoing commitment to building stronger relationships between the police and the community while fostering a safe, peaceful and harmonious environment,” he said.
