Singapore authorities arrested two Malaysian nationals in separate incidents at Woodlands Checkpoint for attempting to smuggle large quantities of drugs into the country—one of whom even hid narcotics near his groin area.
Both cases, flagged by Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers, led to follow-up operations by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), with the total haul exceeding S$150,000 in street value. A Singaporean man was also arrested in connection with the first case.
First Suspect Hid Drugs in Groin, Local Man Later Arrested
On the evening of 31 July 2025, a 33-year-old Malaysian man driving a Malaysia-registered car was stopped at Woodlands Checkpoint. Officers directed the vehicle for enhanced inspection and found a black flask containing suspicious drug bundles.
Further checks by CNB revealed the man had an additional packet of drugs concealed in his groin area. In total, about 414g of methamphetamine (commonly known as “Ice”) and 46g of ecstasy tablets were recovered.
CNB then launched a follow-up operation near Bras Basah later the same day, arresting a 52-year-old Singaporean man believed to be linked to the trafficking attempt. Authorities also seized cash in various currencies—S$2,947.30, 74,920 Thai baht, and RM1,185.65.
The methamphetamine alone could fuel the habits of around 230 abusers for a week, according to CNB.
Second Suspect Busted with Nearly 4.2kg of Cannabis
Just days later, on the morning of 2 August, ICA officers intercepted another Malaysian—this time a 36-year-old riding a Malaysia-registered motorcycle. The vehicle was also referred for thorough checks, which led to the discovery of one packet of suspected drugs.
Further inspection by CNB uncovered four large bundles in the motorcycle’s rear storage compartment. In total, about 4,149g of cannabis and 10g of ketamine were seized, worth more than S$100,000 on the streets.
This cannabis quantity alone is estimated to satisfy the consumption of nearly 590 users for a week.
Death Penalty Looms for Serious Drug Offences
Both cases remain under investigation.
Singapore’s drug laws remain among the strictest in the world. Under the Misuse of Drugs Act, importing more than 250g of methamphetamine or 500g of cannabis may lead to the death penalty.
These arrests underscore the relentless efforts by ICA and CNB in maintaining Singapore’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking. The use of thorough vehicle checks and intelligence-led operations continues to be a cornerstone in safeguarding national security and public health.