A group of more than 20 suspected drug users was caught off guard after authorities raided what was believed to be a popular drug “hotspot” located inside an oil palm plantation in Seri Bandi, Kemaman, during an early morning operation today.
The 7am raid was carried out by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) following intelligence reports that the secluded plantation area had been frequently used as a gathering point for drug consumption activities.
Terengganu AADK director Arzmi Abdullah said the group was among 169 suspected drug users detained across Kemaman, Setiu and Marang under the five-day Ops Perdana enforcement exercise, which concluded today.
He added that 65 suspects were detained in Kemaman, while 52 each were arrested in Marang and Setiu. Those detained included individuals from various backgrounds such as labourers, restaurant workers, teachers, and others aged between 18 and 61.
Authorities also revealed that some of the suspects were linked by family ties, including father and son pairs as well as three siblings, highlighting the widespread nature of drug abuse within certain communities.
Urine screening results showed that 132 individuals tested positive for methamphetamine (pil kuda), while others were found positive for heroin and ketum, according to officials. Further investigations and follow-up action are currently underway.
