MUKAH – Police in Mukah have detained a 21-year-old foreign national after a raid uncovered drugs believed to be methamphetamine at a development project site in Tel-lian Village, Central Mukah.
The operation was carried out by the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division of the Mukah District Police Headquarters on 12 July 2026 at around 1.00 pm.
Acting on intelligence, officers arrested the suspect and seized a clear straw containing crystalline substances suspected to be methamphetamine, commonly known as syabu. The gross weight of the confiscated drugs was estimated at 0.46 grams.
The suspect, who works as a labourer, was taken into custody along with the seized items. Subsequent urine tests revealed that he tested positive for both amphetamine and methamphetamine.
Police confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 12(2) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which covers possession of controlled substances.
In addition to the drug-related charges, investigations are also being conducted under the Immigration Act 1959/63, as the suspect was found without valid travel documents. Authorities have opened an investigation paper under the relevant sections of the Act to address the immigration offence.
The Mukah Magistrate’s Court has approved a four-day remand order until 17 July 2026 to allow police to complete their investigations. Officers are expected to pursue both the narcotics and immigration aspects of the case thoroughly.
Mukah District Police Chief DSP Muhamad Rizal bin Alias stated that the arrest demonstrates the police’s commitment to tackling drug abuse and trafficking activities in the district. He emphasised that enforcement efforts will continue to target individuals involved in narcotics, regardless of nationality.
“The Mukah IPD is fully committed to eliminating all forms of drug abuse activities. Any information related to such activities can be submitted by contacting 084-87122 or any nearby police station,” he said in a statement released on 13 July 2026.
Drug abuse remains a pressing concern in Sarawak, with police regularly conducting raids and operations to curb the spread of narcotics. The latest arrest in Mukah highlights the dual challenge faced by enforcement agencies in addressing both drug-related offences and immigration violations.
Community cooperation has been repeatedly stressed as a vital component in combating drug crime. Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly, noting that public involvement can significantly assist enforcement efforts.
The case also underscores the risks posed by drug abuse within labour communities, particularly in development project areas where foreign workers are employed. Authorities have pledged to continue monitoring such sites closely to prevent illegal activities from taking root.
As investigations proceed, police remain focused on ensuring that offenders are brought to justice and that community safety is upheld. The Mukah District Police have reiterated their stance that strict enforcement and proactive measures are essential in protecting the well-being of residents and maintaining public order.
