AKPS Foils RM1.69 Mln Drug Smuggling Bid At KLIA

PUTRAJAYA, July 1 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has foiled an attempt to smuggle suspected cannabis, estimated to be worth RM1.69 million, out of the country through Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 last Monday.

Its director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said AKPS detained a local woman in her 30s and seized luggage containing substances believed to be cannabis flowers at the terminal.

AKPS said a detailed inspection uncovered 39 packages of suspected cannabis flowers weighing 21.14 kilogrammes and capable of supplying an estimated 70,333 users.

In a separate statement, it said the seizure resulted from an integrated operation and close cooperation between its KLIA personnel and Aviation Security (AVSEC) in strengthening security controls at the country's gateways and combating cross-border smuggling activities.

“The suspect and seized items have been handed over to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for investigation and further action under the provisions of the relevant laws,” the agency said.

Mohd Shuhaily advised Malaysians not to accept requests to carry items whose ownership, destination or intended recipient cannot be verified.

“Ultimately, the person carrying such items will bear the consequences,” he told a press conference after the AKPS monthly assembly here today.

AKPS said the case demonstrated the effectiveness of multi-layered security controls at the country's entry and exit points, as well as the vigilance of enforcement personnel in detecting smuggling attempts using various modus operandi.

The agency added that it would continue strengthening border security through integrated enforcement operations, the use of advanced screening technology and strategic cooperation with other enforcement agencies to curb drug smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

-- BERNAMA