On June 19, 2025, Malaysian authorities apprehended three Singaporeans as part of a significant drug bust targeting a syndicate involved in the distribution of cocaine-laced e-vaporiser liquid. The arrests occurred in Ampang Jaya, with the Royal Malaysia Police’s Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) announcing the details in a Facebook post on June 23.
The operation led to the capture of four men, including a 57-year-old Malaysian national and two Singaporeans aged 46 and 25, who were found in a vehicle near a hotel. A third Singaporean, aged 31, was arrested in the hotel lobby. During the investigation, authorities discovered a Toyota Vellfire containing 10 boxes with 4,958 vape cartridges, which were suspected to hold approximately 9.42 litres of cocaine. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is around RM7.29 million (approximately S$2.2 million).
Details of the Drug Syndicate’s Operations
At a press conference on June 23, NCID acting director Mat Zani Mohd Salahuddin Che Ali revealed that the syndicate had been operating since March. They reportedly rented luxury condominium units in Kuala Lumpur to package the drugs before distributing them internationally. According to Mat Zani, the suspects were compensated between RM100 to RM200 daily, while the fourth individual profited from the sales of the vape products.
This operation marks Malaysia’s first known cocaine vape distribution syndicate, highlighting a concerning trend in drug trafficking methods. Each vape cartridge is estimated to be worth RM1,500 on the international market and can provide up to 100 inhalations, raising alarms about the potential for widespread abuse.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigations
The case is currently under investigation in accordance with Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act, which imposes severe penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment, along with a minimum of 12 lashes if convicted. The authorities believe that the syndicate intended to use Malaysia as a transit hub for smuggling drugs, potentially transported via land routes from the south.
As the investigation continues, the authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking. The swift action taken by the Malaysian police serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against drug-related crimes in the region.
For those seeking updates on this developing story, stay tuned to reliable news sources and consider subscribing to local news channels for the latest information.