Datuk-led drug ring members to be charged

LABUAN: Eleven members of the largest drug syndicate in Sabah, including its alleged ringleader who has a Datuk title, will be prosecuted in Kota Kinabalu.

Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (intelligence and operations) deputy director Deputy Comm Datuk Zainudin Ahmad said the Attorney General’s Chambers has given the green light to prosecute the suspects concerned.

He said investigations into the syndicate, which evolved from contraband activities to becoming the largest drug network extending to the Philippines and Indonesia, have been concluded.

“The upcoming court proceedings mark a significant milestone in the fight against drug-related crime in the region, with authorities actively addressing the evolving challenges posed by such syndicates,” DCP Zainudin said.

He said all assets belonging to the syndicate members linked to drug-related activities have been confiscated, Bernama reported.

DCP Zainudin said some districts in Sabah have been identified as hotspots for drug activities due to their proximity to the Eastern Sabah Security Zone.