KUCHING: An unemployed man, who took up an offer to earn quick cash by packing drugs, is now facing the possibility of death penalty after narcotics police uncovered a stash worth RM1.4 million in a rented house at Tabuan Desa.
The 22-year-old was arrested during a raid by the Sarawak Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) at around 11:30 pm on August 22.
Sarawak Deputy Police Commissioner, DCP Saifullizan Ishak, said the drugs, believed to be intended for the local market, comprised MDMA weighing 74.3 kg, 20.83 g of ketamine, and 11.04 g of Erimin 5 pills.
The amount seized could have endangered 247,764 lives if consumed.
“Investigations found the suspect had only joined the syndicate this month after being approached by a man who promised him an easy job – guarding drug supplies and repackaging them into smaller packets.
“In return, his food and lodging were covered, and he was given RM1,000 for initial expenses,” he said at a press conference today.
Saifullizan shared that jobs involving drug activities often offer highly lucrative pay. For example, acting as a courier to transport drugs from Kuching to the border, can earn up to RM50,000.
The suspect, who tested negative for drugs and has no prior criminal record, is being remanded for seven days until August 30 to facilitate investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
Upon conviction, the suspect may face the death penalty or life imprisonment, and if not sentenced to death, at least 12 strokes of the cane.
He stated that efforts are underway to track down other syndicate members, and will not compromise with any party involved in drug activities.
Members of the public are advised to continue channelling information to the police through the NCID hotline at 012-2087222.
