THE major drug cartel highlighted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is already under active investigation, with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirming that enforcement action is ongoing to curb the syndicate’s operations.
Director of the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN), Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, said the department has long held intelligence on the cartel and that several operations have already been conducted, with additional measures now under way.
“The smuggling of drugs using containers is an old method but it is still being used by syndicates today,” he said when contacted by Harian Metro.
He added that JSJN is working closely with domestic agencies, including the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), the Malaysian Border Control Agency (AKPS), and port authorities, alongside international cooperation with foreign enforcement bodies.
When asked about Anwar’s revelation that political actors may be involved in the syndicate, Hussein confirmed that investigations are ongoing. “JSJN is conducting an investigation into the drug syndicate cartel, and the investigation is still ongoing,” he said.
He also revealed that Malaysia is collaborating with Australian authorities by sharing intelligence and forensic findings. “Australian authorities will also be prosecuting a suspect there,” he noted.
Anwar earlier stated that he first learned of the cartel two decades ago but found that no formal action had been taken. The Prime Minister said that even after assuming office and waiting a year, he still received no reports on the cartel’s activities, despite ongoing public discussion.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, nonetheless commended domestic enforcement agencies for the actions they have since taken to pursue those behind the operation. - November 16, 2025
