BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Five Bruneian men aged between 22 and 38 have been arrested for their involvement in a cross-border drug smuggling operation orchestrated by an international drug syndicate, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) revealed in a statement on Thursday (June 19).
The suspects were apprehended at various locations across the country during the final week of May 2025 as part of Operasi POTTER, a targeted enforcement effort led by the bureau.
Investigations found that the individuals had been recruited by a foreign-based syndicate to act as couriers for delivering cannabis to destinations in Europe through third countries.
Four of the suspects had reportedly completed multiple successful smuggling trips, handing over the drugs to syndicate members at pre-arranged locations abroad.
One suspect, meanwhile, served as a recruiter, enlisting locals into the syndicate’s operations in exchange for commissions for each successful delivery.
NCB estimates that the total financial gain from their smuggling activities amounted to approximately BND21,000, while the total volume of cannabis trafficked reached 68 kilogrammes, with a street value exceeding BND1 million at the destination countries.
The syndicate’s modus operandi involved concealing drugs in specially modified luggage and fully covering all travel costs — including accommodation, airfare, and ground transport — as an incentive for locals to participate.
Recruits were also encouraged to bring in new members to ensure the continuity of the trafficking operation.
NCB expressed deep concern over the involvement of Bruneians in serious criminal activities abroad and reminded the public to remain vigilant against offers of quick financial gain, which could ultimately lead to severe legal consequences, imprisonment, or personal harm overseas.
“Participation in criminal activity, whether knowingly or unknowingly, is not a defensible excuse under foreign laws,” the bureau warned.
The NCB also extended its appreciation to both local and international intelligence and enforcement agencies for their collaboration in ensuring the success of this operation. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
