MIRI – The Miri Magistrates’ Court has fined 18 people after they pleaded guilty in separate cases involving offences under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
The group comprises five men and 13 women, according to the Miri District Police.
Each of the accused was fined RM2,200 following their convictions for offences relating to the consumption or self-administration of dangerous drugs, which can be established through a positive urine test.
Police said the court also ordered that each offender serve five months in prison if the respective fine is not paid. The cases were dealt with by the court on 18 August 2026.
Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 covers the offence of consuming or administering dangerous drugs into the body.
A positive urine screening result can form part of the evidence used in proceedings involving suspected drug consumption.
The sentences come as Miri police continue efforts to detect drug-related activities in the district.
Miri District Police Chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee said police were stepping up operations to identify and take action against drug abuse, particularly cases involving what he described as “juice drugs” detected at entertainment centres in Miri.
Police did not provide further details on the individual cases or the substances involved in the 18 convictions.
The authorities said enforcement operations would continue as part of efforts to address drug abuse and related offences in the district. One of those convicted is an Indonesian national.
The court ordered that he be referred to the Malaysian Immigration Department after completing a five-month prison term because he did not have valid travel documents to enter and remain in Malaysia.
The immigration referral will take place after the completion of the prison sentence, according to police.
Miri police also urged members of the public to provide information on suspected drug-related activities to the Miri District Police Headquarters or the nearest police station.
Police said information from the community could assist enforcement agencies in identifying suspected offences and taking action where appropriate.
The appeal comes as authorities continue to emphasise the importance of public cooperation in efforts to enforce laws relating to dangerous drugs.
Police also reiterated that members of the public should promptly report information concerning suspected criminal or drug-related activities through the appropriate channels.
The cases underline the legal consequences of convictions under Section 15(1)(a), including a financial penalty and a custodial sentence where the imposed fine is not paid.
Authorities said cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the community remained important in supporting enforcement efforts and maintaining compliance with the country’s laws.
