SEPANG: Three Japanese men have been arrested for trying to smuggle cannabis buds worth about RM4.2mil at Terminal 1 of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
KLIA Customs Department director Zulkifli Muhammad said they were detained with the drugs on Nov 18.
"The suspects were held at the International Arrival Hall after their luggage was flagged during scanning.
"A subsequent physical inspection uncovered several plastic packages containing what is believed to be cannabis buds concealed inside packets of dried food.
"The suspects and the seized items were handed over to the KLIA Customs Enforcement Division for further investigation," he said in a statement on Saturday (Nov 29).
The buds, weighing 43.36kg, have a street value of over RM4.2mil, he added.
"The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which provides for the death penalty, or life imprisonment with at least 12 strokes of the cane if found guilty.
"The cannabis was concealed in dry food packages distributed among six pieces of luggage belonging to the suspects," he said.
The department remains committed to strengthening enforcement efforts as it continues its crackdown on smuggling activities nationwide, Zulkifli added.
"We urge the public to play their part in combating smuggling activities involving contraband cigarettes, alcohol, fireworks, drugs, vehicles and other illicit goods.
"Smuggling not only costs the nation in revenue losses but also poses serious threats to national security and public safety," he said.
Zulkifli urged anyone with information on smuggling activities to contact the Customs toll-free line at 1-800-88-8855 or the nearest Customs office.
"Rest assured that all informants’ identities will be kept strictly confidential," he said.
