KUCHING: A local man in his late 30s, who flew in from Johor Baharu, has been arrested by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM)on suspicion of drug trafficking.
He has been remanded to assist in the investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
JKDM Sarawak director Datuk Sharifah Halimah Tuanku Taha said that the man and his luggage were inspected by the Customs Special Unit
Passenger Inspection officer at around 12.45pm at Kuching International Airport (KIA) on Wednesday (July 29).
“The results of the scan showed suspicious images in the luggage and a thorough inspection led to the discovery of 10 packages containing crystalline substances suspected to be methamphetamine.
“The packages were seized. The drugs, which weighed 10,126g, were valued at RM405,040,” said Sharifah in a statement.
She pointed out that the packages were wrapped in aluminum foil, a move aimed at confusing the Customs officer on duty.
“However, JKDM is always proactive in assessing any high-risk individuals,’ she said.
She added those found guilty of distributing dangerous drugs could be prosecuted under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and if convicted, could face the death penalty.
Sharifah revealed that from January to date, JKDM Sarawak had seized RM545,013 worth of drugs..
She urged the public to channel information on smuggling of prohibited goods such as cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers and drugs to the Customs Toll Free Line 1-800-88-8855 or any nearby Customs Office in all states.
