KUCHING: The tactics of drug syndicates in Sarawak are becoming increasingly difficult to detect as they use online platforms and courier services to distribute illicit substances, prompting authorities to strengthen intelligence and collaboration with other agencies.
Head of the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) in Sarawak, ACP Mustafa Kamal Gani Ab, stated that drug dealers are no longer using common terms such as “syabu” (methamphetamine), instead opting for code names like “ais” (ice) or “batu” (stone) to obscure their activities from authorities.
“These terms are understood by local buyers but are hard to intercept without in-depth intelligence. This is one of the tactics employed by the syndicates,” he said at a press conference attended by Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, here on Friday.
He explained that collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) has long been in place to curb drug advertisements on the internet. Once an advertisement is identified, immediate action is taken, he said.
In addition, he mentioned that the police have also established close cooperation with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department and courier companies to combat attempts to smuggle drugs via packages.
He noted that major seizures at main entry points such as airports are often successful due to information-sharing with authorities in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Intelligence operations are carried out daily, from Lundu to Lawas. Although the vast border presents challenges, arrests are still made continuously,” he further explained.
As of August 17, the Sarawak police have recorded 7,372 drug-related arrests, showing a 2.9 per cent increase or 205 arrests compared to the same period last year, he said.
Out of the total, 420 individuals were arrested for drug trafficking, 1,406 for possession, and 5,546 for drug addiction.
“Nearly 40 per cent of the addicts arrested are repeat offenders, which show that the drug issue is still serious in the community.
“The police also do not rule out the latest trend of vaping mixed with drugs, which is increasingly being detected in the state and could pose a significant threat to the youth,” he said.
He emphasized that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), together with other agencies, will continue to intensify intelligence operations, enforcement, and public education to ensure that Sarawak is not used as a transit point for international syndicates or a major drug market.
