Four-month intelligence operation leads to major drug seizure and multiple arrests
A major drug trafficking network operating across borders has been dealt a significant blow after Malaysian police carried out a coordinated operation in Kelantan, uncovering large quantities of illegal narcotics and exposing international links behind the syndicate.
Major Seizure After Months of Surveillance
Kelantan police dismantled a drug syndicate following a four-month intelligence operation under Ops Agas, arresting three men and seizing 52kg of cannabis buds in Kuala Krai on January 3. The operation was led by the Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department, according to its director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan.
Dramatic Arrest on Key Highway
The first raid took place along Jalan Kota Bharu–Gua Musang, where a 32-year-old suspect attempted to evade authorities before his Proton Exora collided with a police vehicle. A subsequent search of the car uncovered 320 clear plastic packages containing 52kg of cannabis buds, marking one of the largest recent seizures in the area.
Follow-Up Raids Net Additional Suspects
Later that day, police conducted a second raid in Taman Sri Guchil, Kuala Krai, arresting two more suspects aged 40 and 50. They were travelling in a Perodua Myvi and are believed to be key operatives within the same trafficking network.
Drugs Valued at Millions
Authorities estimated the seized cannabis to be worth RM1.82 million, while the two impounded vehicles were valued at around RM100,000. This brings the total value of the seizure to RM1.92 million, highlighting the scale and financial impact of the syndicate’s activities.
Criminal Records and Drug Use Identified
Initial investigations revealed that the first suspect tested positive for ketamine and had nine prior criminal records. The second suspect was also no stranger to law enforcement, with six previous records. All three suspects have been remanded from January 3 to January 16 to assist with ongoing investigations.
Cross-Border Mastermind Still at Large
Police believe the syndicate has been active since September 2024 and is masterminded by a woman in her 30s based in Thailand. She is suspected of holding dual citizenship. Malaysian authorities are now working closely with Thai counterparts to locate and apprehend her. The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the mandatory death penalty or life imprisonment upon conviction.
This high-profile bust underscores the growing complexity of cross-border drug trafficking in Southeast Asia and the importance of sustained intelligence cooperation between neighboring countries. For both Indonesians and Singaporeans, the case highlights how regional security and law enforcement collaboration remain critical in curbing narcotics networks that threaten public safety and regional stability.
Sources: Malay Mail (2026) , Malaysia Kini (2026)
Keywords: Cannabis Syndicate, Kelantan Drug Bust, Dangerous Drugs Act, Bukit Aman Narcotics, Thailand Malaysia Crime
