KUCHING: The Sarawak police are in the process of enforcing the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) against organised drug syndicates in the state as part of a new strategy to cripple the narcotics network.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohammad Zainal Abdullah said this marks a shift in approach by categorising drug trafficking as organised crime, allowing authorities to take tougher action, including detaining offenders without bail until appeals are concluded.
He said the move aims to send a clear warning to all those involved in drug distribution networks from syndicate leaders to small-time dealers, that police will not compromise in their efforts to combat the menace.
“This is a new approach that we intend to implement in Sarawak to ensure syndicates feel the pressure and deterrence from the law,” he said during a press conference after paying a courtesy visit to Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah here today.
Comm Mohammad Zainal said since his appointment as Sarawak Commissioner, anti-drug enforcement has been intensified across the state, resulting in more than a 100 per cent increase in drug-related arrests.
He added that the police have adopted the principle of “no day without a drug arrest” as part of ongoing efforts to tackle substance abuse and trafficking activities.
“Arrests related to drug supply and possession have also increased by over 50 per cent, and this shows that our enforcement efforts are producing results,” he said.
Meanwhile, Fatimah commended the police’s strong focus on drug-related issues, noting that it aligns with the ministry’s social wellbeing agenda, which includes addressing substance abuse among the 13 key social issues identified in Sarawak.
She added that her ministry will continue to work closely with the police as a strategic partner in combating not only drug abuse but also other social problems such as domestic violence, teenage pregnancy and child abuse.
