KOTA SAMARAHAN – Police in Kota Samarahan have detained a local man suspected of distributing ketum water following a targeted operation by the District Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division (BSJND). The arrest took place on 9 June in Kampung Binyok R/Scheme, near the Kota Samarahan Expressway.
The enforcement team, led by Inspector Jasni anak Nimos, moved in around midday after conducting surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Officers apprehended the 41-year-old suspect behind a house in the village, where they discovered several items believed to be linked to ketum water processing.
During the inspection, police seized three bottles containing a murky green liquid suspected to be ketum water.
They also found a yellowish-white barrel marked “Nippon Paint”, which investigators believe was used for storage or preparation.
The total volume confiscated amounted to approximately 4,500 millilitres, with an estimated street value of RM135.
Preliminary questioning revealed that the suspect admitted ownership of the seized liquid and confessed to selling ketum water since January.
He further disclosed that his supply was obtained from an individual known only as “Mie”, with transactions carried out in person.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect tested negative for drugs during initial screening. A background check also showed no prior criminal records.
Despite this, police emphasised that the sale and distribution of ketum water remain serious offences under Malaysian law.
The suspect is currently being held at the Kota Samarahan Police Station lockup to assist with further investigations.
The case is being pursued under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952, which carries heavy penalties for those convicted. Offenders may face fines of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for a maximum of five years, or both.
Law enforcement officials highlighted that ketum water, derived from the leaves of the kratom plant, has been widely misused in Malaysia despite its traditional medicinal associations.
The government has classified its sale and distribution as illegal due to concerns over abuse and health risks. Police reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations against ketum-related activities in Sarawak.
They stressed that community cooperation is vital in curbing the spread of such substances, urging residents to report suspicious behaviour or individuals involved in illegal distribution.
The arrest underscores ongoing efforts by the Kota Samarahan IPD to safeguard public health and maintain order.
Authorities continue to warn that ketum water trafficking poses risks not only to consumers but also to the wider community, as its circulation undermines safety and legal compliance.
