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CROSS-BORDER smuggling syndicates are expanding their operations to Malaysia’s eastern seaboard, exploiting maritime routes to move drugs, firearms and undocumented migrants as enforcement tightens along traditional land and river crossings.
Kelantan Police Chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said intelligence findings indicate that activities once concentrated along land borders and riverine routes have now spread to coastal areas, including Semerak and Kemasin in Pasir Puteh.
He added that entry points around Tumpat, the Kelantan River and the Kuala Besar estuary have been identified as primary corridors used by these syndicates, reflecting an increasingly extensive operational network.
"The police have received information that smuggling activities have reached the neighbouring state of Besut, Terengganu.
“They are using sea routes after enforcement along the Sungai Golok was tightened,” he said.
The shift in tactics was highlighted by a recent seizure by the General Operations Force (PGA) on Sunday, involving 114 kilogrammes of methamphetamine worth more than RM5 million in Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu.
“I have raised this issue previously, where their modus operandi changed following stricter enforcement at the border.
“Syndicates will use any means, from land routes at the border to sea routes, to bring in illegal immigrants, drugs, and firearms,” he said.
Authorities believe the syndicates are exploiting remote coastal landing points and poorly monitored areas, especially at night, to avoid detection.
Yusoff said the police would intensify enforcement efforts and strengthen coordination with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and the Marine Police to enhance surveillance along coastal areas.
“We will coordinate with the MMEA and Marine Police to increase maritime patrols and close any vulnerabilities along the coastline,” he said.
He also urged coastal communities to assist authorities by providing information to curb cross-border smuggling, particularly involving fuel.
“We hope local communities can help by providing information so we can curb cross-border smuggling, especially involving petrol and diesel,” he added. - April 3, 2026
