The smuggling and distribution of ketum to fishermen and crew members at the Tok Bali port in Kelantan has been uncovered following a raid by the General Operations Force (PGA), which seized 105 litres of the substance on Tuesday.
Southeast Brigade PGA commander Senior Assistant Commissioner Ahmad Radzi Hussain said two men aged 23 and 45 were arrested during the operation carried out by intelligence officers from Battalion 8 PGA with support from the Pasir Puteh district narcotics police.
The raid was conducted at about 2.30pm in front of a port facility after intelligence gathering and surveillance operations indicated suspicious activity in the area.
Officers moved in on a modified Perodua Viva believed to be linked to the distribution activity, but both suspects attempted to flee before being successfully detained at the scene.
A search of the vehicle uncovered 70 packets of ketum drink, totalling 105 litres, which are believed to have been prepared for sale to fishermen and boat workers stationed at the port.
Authorities also seized RM800 in cash, a vehicle, wallets and other items, bringing the total value of the seizure to approximately RM14,300.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the younger suspect had been sourcing ketum supplies at around RM6 per packet from a local supplier before reselling it to customers within the port area.
Both suspects reportedly admitted to being involved in the distribution of ketum for about a year.
Drug screening tests showed that the 45-year-old suspect tested positive for methamphetamine, while the younger suspect tested negative.
Police also confirmed that both individuals had prior records involving drugs and criminal offences.
The case is being investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952, while the older suspect is also being probed under Section 15(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
