The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) in Sabah has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle cocaine and cannabis worth more than RM2.9 million through a courier service in Tawau recently.
The seizure took place on May 21 when enforcement officers from JKDM Tawau inspected two suspicious parcels at a courier premises at about 11.45am, following intelligence-led operations.
Sabah JKDM Director Dr Ahmad Taufik Sulaiman said the first box contained 10 packets believed to be cocaine weighing around 4.6kg, valued at RM2,048,823, while the second box held 10 aluminium foil packages containing compressed dried plant material suspected to be cannabis weighing 10.65kg.
He said the drugs were believed to have been sent using courier services in Tawau, with initial information indicating the intended destination was Lahad Datu.
Authorities are still investigating whether the drugs were meant for local distribution or international trafficking, noting that this is the first cocaine seizure recorded in Sabah.
Dr Ahmad Taufik added that the total value of the seized drugs was estimated at RM2,900,525.80, with the case being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
In a separate case, JKDM Sabah also seized a Honda Jazz valued at RM63,250 in Kampung Tinagat, Tawau, suspected of being smuggled without proper customs clearance.
He said the vehicle was believed to have been hidden in a village area as part of an attempt to avoid detection, and investigations are ongoing under relevant customs exemption laws.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strengthening enforcement efforts against drug trafficking and smuggling activities in the state.
