BETONG: The proposal to use the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) to curb drug trafficking and abuse is part of the state’s broader crime-fighting strategy, says Deputy Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam.
He said that the proposal comes as part of the government’s effort to strengthen legal measures against drug activities, which have become a key focus for the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development.
“I fully support the Royal Malaysia Police’s (PDRM) proposal to use SOSMA to combat drug activities in Sarawak in the future.
“Indeed, at the ministry level, drug issues are among the key concerns that we are keen to tackle.
“Previously, the government only relied on the Dangerous Drugs Act, which had limited powers in terms of arrests. This often resulted in suspects being released two to three days after detention, making it difficult to fully address the drug problem,” he said.
He made the remarks while commenting on a statement by the Sarawak Police Commissioner, Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah, after attending the Elderly Health Benefits Scheme (SCHB) engagement session and other services by the Sarawak Social Welfare Department (JKMS) in the Debak, Betong district, on Tuesday evening.
Razi, who is also the Saribas assemblyman, said that the previous use of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 gave the police limited authority, especially regarding the detention of drug offenders.
As such, he added that these legal constraints often led to suspects being released within two to three days, hindering the authorities’ efforts to tackle drug activities comprehensively.
“On the other hand, the use of SOSMA allows suspects to be detained until the completion of trial.
“This measure is not intended to deny individuals’ human rights but to ensure that the drug threat can be addressed firmly and effectively for public safety,” he added.
Earlier, at an event in Lawas, Zainal said that the police would use provisions under SOSMA to dismantle and cripple drug syndicates in the state.
“The police are also considering using the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLA) against the syndicates to trace and seize their assets,” he said.
