MUKAH – Police in Mukah have detained a 34-year-old man following a raid at a local filling station, where he was allegedly found in possession of substances believed to be methamphetamine.
The arrest took place on 17 April during an integrated crime prevention operation carried out by the Mukah District Police Headquarters.
According to the authorities, the suspect was apprehended in the men’s toilet of the station. Officers discovered two straw tubes, one clear and one pink, containing crystalline material suspected to be syabu. The total weight of the seized drugs was estimated at 0.54 grams.
The suspect, who is employed as a palm plantation labourer, was taken into custody along with the confiscated items. Subsequent testing revealed that he was positive for both amphetamine and methamphetamine.
Police confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 12(2) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, a provision that carries serious penalties for possession of prohibited substances.
District Police Chief DSP Muhamad Rizal bin Alias stated that the suspect has been remanded for four days until 22 April to assist with further investigations.
He emphasised that the police remain committed to intensifying efforts against drug abuse in the district. “IPD Mukah is committed to pressure-cutting all activities of drug abuse. Any information related to activities of drug abuse can be channelled directly through line 084-871222 or any nearby police station,” he said.
Drug-related arrests have been a growing concern in Sarawak, with recent enforcement operations across the state highlighting the prevalence of methamphetamine use.
National reports indicate that methamphetamine continues to be the most commonly abused drug in Malaysia, with rural and plantation areas not exempt from its reach.
Authorities have stepped up integrated operations in recent years, combining police, anti-drug agencies, and community enforcement to curb the spread of narcotics.
The Mukah arrest underscores the ongoing challenge faced by law enforcement in tackling drug abuse at the community level.
While the quantity seized in this case was relatively small, police stress that every arrest contributes to dismantling wider networks of supply and distribution.
Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. Police believe that public cooperation is vital in reducing the impact of drug abuse on families and neighbourhoods.
The investigation into the suspect’s activities is expected to continue, with officers examining whether he was acting alone or connected to a larger network.
The outcome of the case will depend on the findings during the remand period and subsequent legal proceedings.
