A major drug syndicate operating out of Johor Bahru (JB) has been busted after Malaysian authorities uncovered a sophisticated operation hiding illegal substances in packets labelled as milk tea.
The gang was found to be running its illicit trade from two adjacent terrace houses in Iskandar Puteri, where drugs were processed, packaged, and distributed. Police revealed that sachets were sold for between RM200 to RM350 each (S$60 to S$106), with deceptive packaging that resembled ordinary instant beverage mixes.
The syndicate was reportedly operating quietly within a residential neighbourhood, raising concerns about how easily drug trafficking operations can blend into everyday settings.
Fake Milk Tea Sold on Social Media; Delivery & Drop-Off System Used
According to Johor Police Chief Commissioner M. Kumar, the bust occurred during an overnight operation between 7:30pm on June 14 and 5:00am on June 15. Officers arrested three individuals — a 45-year-old Malaysian man believed to be the syndicate leader, and two Vietnamese women aged 34 and 23. All tested positive for drug use but had no previous criminal records.
The syndicate is believed to have promoted its fake “milk tea” sachets on social media. Buyers would place orders online, with deliveries arranged or picked up at specific drop-off points, mimicking tactics seen in international drug networks.
Each packet came with instructions mimicking legitimate beverage products, further masking their true content and making detection harder for casual observers.
Over S$2.1 Million in Drugs, Cash, and Assets Seized
During the raid, authorities seized an estimated RM7.14 million (S$2.16 million) worth of illegal substances and related assets. Among the confiscated items were:
- 40kg of ecstasy powder worth RM6.8 million (S$2.05 million)
- 1.4kg of ketamine valued at RM68,750 (S$20,800)
- 368g of cannabis worth RM11,040 (S$3,300)
In addition, officers also took two vehicles (Kia models), drug packaging materials, a gold necklace, and cash — all believed to be proceeds of the operation.
Syndicate Expansion and Ongoing Investigation
Investigations revealed the male suspect had rented the first house in April 2023. By May 2024, the operation expanded to a second house nearby, likely to accommodate growing production demand. The two Vietnamese women allegedly lived in the premises to assist with drug processing and packing.
Authorities are now working to identify additional members who may be involved. The immigration status of the two women is also under review, as they are suspected of being in Malaysia illegally.
All suspects are currently remanded and being investigated under Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act, with potential additional charges under immigration laws.
Image Source: Sin Chew Daily & Chinapress