TAWAU: Police arrested a 30-year-old fisherman suspected of carrying more than 3kg of syabu worth about RM105,000 at Indrasabah.
The foreigner, who tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine, is believed to be a drug transporter attempting to smuggle the substance to a neighbouring country.
Tawau District Police Chief ACP Jasmin Hussin said the arrest was made around 3.30pm on Friday at the entrance area to Indrasabah Fishing Paradise.
“The man tried to flee when approached and threw a grey bag to the ground before being apprehended,” he told a media conference at the Tawau District Police Headquarters, Wednesday.
The syabu, weighing 3,085.54 grammes, was discovered after examination of green tea packages.
“Investigation to identify the drug syndicate network and the suspect’s modus operandi for transporting syabu to neighbouring countries is ongoing,” Jasmin said.
Asked about the potential use of local fishing boats as secret transportation for drug smuggling, he did not rule out the possibility.
However, police are also considering the likelihood of speedboats being used to cross borders and enter Indonesian waters within short periods.
“Preliminary investigations conducted so far also indicate that the suspect received drug supplies from local suppliers rather than from neighbouring Philippines,” he added.
The public has been urged to continuously provide information regarding drug possession, distribution and substance abuse activities as part of joint commitment with police in efforts to combat such activities.
