ASAJAYA – Police have detained a man suspected of running an illegal ketum water business during a crime prevention operation in Kampung Asajaya Lot.
The arrest was carried out by the Kota Samarahan District Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division (BSJND) as part of Ops Bersepadu Cegah Jenayah Bil. 23/2026.
The 31-year-old suspect was apprehended at approximately 3.30 pm in an unnumbered house within the village.
Officers led by Inspector Jasni anak Nimos discovered 13 bottles filled with a greenish liquid believed to be ketum water.
The bottles, of assorted beverage brands, were found in the kitchen. An orange box labelled “OCEAN OCN-F50L” was also seized, thought to be linked to the activity.
Authorities estimate the total volume confiscated at 19,500 millilitres, with a street value of around RM585.
Investigators reported that the suspect admitted ownership of the seized items and confessed to selling ketum water since early 2025.
He further disclosed that his supply of ketum leaves came from an individual known locally as “Pak Ali” in Ladong, Simunjan.
Police checks revealed the suspect had a prior record under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952. However, initial drug screening returned negative results.
He is currently being held at the Kota Samarahan Police Station lockup while investigations continue under the same section of the Poisons Act.
Ketum water, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa plant, has long been controversial in Malaysia.
While some communities use it traditionally, authorities classify its processing and sale as illegal under the Poisons Act. Convictions can result in fines of up to RM100,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
The police have reiterated that ketum misuse poses risks to public health and safety. The Kota Samarahan IPD stressed that enforcement will be intensified to curb the distribution of ketum water in the district.
Community cooperation is considered vital in supporting these efforts, with residents urged to report suspicious activities to the authorities.
This latest arrest highlights ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling ketum-related offences.
Similar operations have been conducted across Sarawak in recent years, reflecting the government’s determination to address the spread of illicit substances and safeguard communities.
Ops Bersepadu continues to serve as a coordinated initiative aimed at reducing crime and ensuring compliance with national laws.
The police have assured that such operations will remain a priority in their strategy to maintain public order and protect the well-being of residents in Kota Samarahan and surrounding areas.
