Post by : Badri Ariffin

Three Malaysian men were arrested at Hat Yai Railway Station in Songkhla on July 31 after Thai authorities allegedly discovered 87 kilograms of syabu, also known as crystal methamphetamine, hidden inside their luggage.

The arrests were carried out during a joint operation led by the "Tawan Hat Yai" unit together with several Thai law enforcement agencies.

Joint Operation Leads to Arrest

According to Ratchapon Palakul, director of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) Region 9 Office, the operation involved officers from the railway police, the Crime Suppression Division, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division, the tourist police, the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, and the ONCB Region 9 Office.

Authorities stopped the three suspects after they arrived at Hat Yai Railway Station on a train that had departed from Bangkok.

During the inspection, officers allegedly found 87 kilograms of syabu concealed inside three wheeled suitcases and three backpacks.

Suspect Admits to Smuggling Offer

Ratchapon said initial investigations found that one of the suspects admitted he had been offered RM8,000 by a drug trafficking syndicate to transport the syabu into Malaysia.

The statement was made during the early stage of the investigation, which is continuing.

Charges Filed Against the Three Men

The three Malaysian suspects have been jointly charged with possessing and trafficking Category One narcotics for the purpose of distribution.

According to Ratchapon, the offence carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to ฿1.5 million, which is approximately RM183,000, if convicted.

Investigation Continues

Thai authorities said investigations are being accelerated to identify the alleged mastermind behind the cross-border drug trafficking operation as well as any other individuals believed to be involved in the syndicate.

#Global News #Malaysia News #World Update #Global Updates