Malaysians Cautioned Against Social Media Drug Mule Traps

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysians have been warned to stay alert against drug syndicates using social media platforms to recruit unsuspecting individuals as drug mules.

In making the call, Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said syndicates were becoming increasingly creative and manipulative, luring victims through platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook with promises of easy money, free travel, high-paying courier jobs or “safe deliveries”.

“Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Anyone caught carrying drugs - even if they claim they did not know - can still face the death penalty under Malaysian law or life imprisonment overseas.

“No online offer is worth risking your life, reputation, and freedom,” he said in a statement today.

He commended the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) for its swift and effective action in arresting four individuals who were used as drug mules to transport bags of cannabis buds worth RM8.3 million to Manchester, United Kingdom.

“This case is a stark reminder that drug syndicates are now exploiting social media to trap Malaysians into becoming drug mules,” he said.

Lee advised Malaysians to take several precautions to avoid becoming victims, including never agreeing to carry or check-in luggage for anyone, especially strangers or online acquaintances.

He also warned the public to be extremely cautious of job offers received through social media, especially those involving overseas travel with high pay and no clear job scope.

“Do not be influenced by videos promising luxury or quick wealth - drug syndicates use social media influencers and fake accounts to trap victims. If something sounds too easy or too good to be true, it is most likely a scam or a crime,” he said.

Lee also urged parents to monitor their children’s online activities and report any suspicious messages, job offers, or individuals to the authorities.

-- BERNAMA