PAPAR: Drug trafficking syndicates are using Sabah as a strategic transit location due to its proximity to neighbouring countries.
Hotspots have been identified primarily in the islands off Tawau, Sandakan and Semporna.
AdvertisementBukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) Director Datuk Seri Khaw Kok Chin (pic) said the high demand for methamphetamine (Syabu), with prices reaching RM450,000 per kilogramme in neighbouring countries, is prompting syndicates to attempt to smuggle drugs through Sabah.
In fact, the states in Malaysia are merely transit points, not producers. Similarly, Sabah is often used as a transit hub by drug trafficking syndicates.
SPONSORED CONTENT How Spritzer’s silica rich natural mineral water makes your skin healthier When it comes to skincare, the first thought on our minds would be beauty products such as serums, creams, and masks. However, beauty experts and even researchers have stated that drinking more water can be just as crucial for your skin's health. Read more “If we look at Malaysia, a kg of methamphetamine is estimated to cost RM33,000 to RM35,000 but when it reaches neighbouring countries, the price can soar to RM450,000 due to the high demand.
With such lucrative prices, most syndicates will attempt to pass through here and transport it to the other side via sea routes.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“However, some do cater to the local market,” he said after chairing a JSJN meeting with the Sabah General Operations Force Brigade (GOF) and the Marine Police Region Four Sabah in Sabah GOF Headquarters in Kinarut, Tuesday.
Khaw explained that Sabah’s strategic location within the triangle formed by Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia makes it more attractive for syndicates to operate before transporting drugs further afield.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});In the Malaysian context, drugs are brought into Sabah using courier services by sea or air from peninsula and then dispatched to neighbouring countries from Sabah.
He added that action is being planned to combat smuggling and drug trafficking syndicates in Sabah.
He noted that hotspots in the island areas used by syndicates have also been identified and that planning is underway in collaboration with other agencies, including assistance from the Air Operations Force (AOF) for drone usage.
He said if police personnel are involved with the syndicates, strict action would be taken.
“We will not compromise with anyone, including any officers involved with the syndicates. We will not collude; rather, we will take firm action if they are implicated.
There will be no double standards when it comes to officers; everyone will face the same consequences if any members are involved,” he said.