KOTA KINABALU: More than 11 tonnes of processed ketum powder believed to be ready for distribution locally were seized at premises in Tuaran, about 40km from here.
Sabah Region 4 Marine Police commander Asst Comm Ahmad Amri Abd Rahman said the 11,450kg seizure, with an estimated street value of RM1.145mil, was believed to be among the largest ketum seizures in the state.
He said the operation was carried out at about 6am on Thursday by the state Marine Police in conjunction with the Tuaran district police Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department following intelligence received.
ACP Ahmad Amri said a total of four suspects – three men aged between 23 and 46, and a 28-year-old woman – were detained to assist in the investigations.
“Initial urine screening tests found all of them negative for drugs,” he said in a statement yesterday.
He said the raiding team found the ketum powder after inspecting the premises and a lorry, and believed it was ready for distribution.
The case is being investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952.
ACP Ahmad Amri said further investigations into the ketum trade were being conducted by the state Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department to identify any other syndicate members.
“Investigations are also ongoing to ensure that ketum abuse in various forms can be comprehensively curbed.
“Sabah Region 4 Marine Police will continue to strengthen intelligence gathering and strategic cooperation with enforcement agencies in combating illegal activities for the safety and well-being of society,” he said.
