KUALA LUMPUR – The police have issued a warning about the “concerning” rise in drug mule cases, following the arrest of 28 individuals this year.
Datuk Seri Mohd Kamarudin Md Din, the director of the Narcotic Crime Investigation Department, said Malaysians must exercise caution and avoid falling victim to offers of high rewards for smuggling drugs from abroad.
He said the 28 individuals were arrested at various international borders between January and November 2023.
Comparatively in 2021, 32 individuals were apprehended, and in 2022, 17 Malaysians were caught abroad engaging in drug smuggling activities.
Kamarudin also highlighted the modus operandi of drug syndicates.
“Drug syndicates can influence and manipulate Malaysians by making enticing offers ranging from RM5,000 to RM10,000 to smuggle drugs abroad, often facilitated through social media,” he said in a statement.
“The situation is very concerning and the narcotics department has urged all Malaysians to be more vigilant and cautious to avoid being influenced by drug syndicates that have become more brazen in making many offers and high rewards to find victims who can be used to smuggle drugs abroad.”
He also said the narcotics department also called on the public to promptly contact their hotline at 012-2087222 if they encounter any suspicious offers related to free holidays, overseas job opportunities, or other enticing propositions with high rewards. – December 28, 2023