An international drug smuggling syndicate’s tactic of hiding narcotics in modified shipping containers was uncovered following an inspection by the Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) at a warehouse in Port Klang on November 7.
JSJN Bukit Aman Director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the success was the result of information received from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) under the Joint Taskforce (TIGER), which tracked the movement of a container from a Middle Eastern country transiting through Port Klang.
He added that a search at around 11 a.m. of the container revealed methamphetamine, believed to be intended for smuggling to Melbourne, Australia.
“Initial intelligence showed that the container was registered to carry 22 pallets labeled as ‘marble slaps,’” he said.
Further inspection uncovered a hidden compartment at the top exterior of the container showing signs of suspicious welding. Police then discovered 136 clear plastic packages containing powder and crystal chunks, believed to be methamphetamine, weighing a total of 45 kilograms and estimated to be worth RM1.44 million.
Records showed the container entered Malaysia on November 3, with Port Klang serving as a transit point before shipment to Australia.
“With this success, JSJN has thwarted an attempt to smuggle methamphetamine for the international market,” Datuk Hussein said, noting that earlier this year, authorities uncovered another similar attempt involving a larger quantity through the same port.
He added that JSJN, in collaboration with the AFP, Dubai Police Anti-Narcotics Unit, and other international agencies, is continuing investigations to identify the syndicate network and individuals involved in using cargo containers for international drug shipments.
The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
Earlier reports in March stated that JSJN Bukit Aman seized 33,200 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine during a raid on two containers at a warehouse in West Port on January 25. The operation, also conducted with the AFP, recovered drugs valued at an estimated RM1.062 billion, stored in 166 drums containing paraffin wax. The two containers were believed to have originated from Iran and transited through Port Klang before being destined for Sydney, Australia.
