Drug seizures by Malaysian authorities in 2021 worth nearly RM1 billion

SHAH ALAM - The authorities have seized 27,959 kilograms (kg) of drugs, nearly RM1 billion in value in 2021 or an increase of 103 per cent compared to the previous year.

The Home Affairs Ministry (KDN) through a statement on Facebook informed that in 2020, 13,317 kg of drugs worth RM403 million were seized by the authorities.

According to the ministry, drugs seizure have increased despite the implementation of the movement control order due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Among the drugs seized are 7,919 kg of syabu (crystal methamphetamine), ephedrine (5,573 kg) and marijuana (3,232 kg), said KDN in a statement.

Last year, authorities have arrested 119,218 individuals and subsequently charged them under The Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

Last Tuesday, some 5,200 individuals including 76 teens suspected of drug use and distributing drugs, were arrested under a special operation that was held nationwide.

Director of Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID), Commissioner Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said from the operations that began from Jan 21 to Jan 23, the police also seized 212.6 kg and 1,199.2 litres of various drugs that are estimated to be valued at RM3.5 million.

As many as 4,987 men and 213 women were arrested. From that number, two teens are 13-year-old and another 74 teens are from the age of 14 to 18 years old.

“The operations also raided and destroyed 367 drug dens,’’ he said.

Ayob Khan said actions were also taken under the Dangerous Drugs (Forfeiture of Property) Act 1988 where the police have seized assets worth RM2.3 million.