POLICE are investigating the potential involvement of domestic drug syndicates in an international trafficking network based in Myanmar, following a major drug seizure in the country earlier this month.
Director of the Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN), Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine whether there is cooperation between Malaysian-based traffickers and the Myanmar network.
“We are looking into the possible involvement of local syndicates,” he said briefly when contacted today.
The investigation follows a report by The Global New Light of Myanmar which stated that anti-narcotics authorities in Yangon dismantled a drug syndicate on 5 September in Shwepyitha Township.
Six suspects were arrested during the operation, which uncovered 1,840 kilograms of methamphetamine, four million stimulant pills, and 14 kilograms of heroin concealed in a warehouse.
Myanmar authorities believe the drugs were sourced from Shan State and intended for shipment to Malaysia.
The suspects are reportedly linked to the armed group known as the Arakan Army. Investigators noted that the syndicate's drug distribution network extends beyond Malaysia to Bangladesh, the Middle East, and Western countries.
In a separate crackdown in August, Myanmar police seized amphetamine pills, crystal meth and ketamine worth an estimated RM300 million (USD71 million) after detaining several high-ranking syndicate leaders.
The Malaysian authorities have pledged full cooperation with regional counterparts to trace any local connections and prevent further infiltration of international narcotics into the country. - September 14, 2025
