Pupil from Sixth Form among 23 individuals held for drug possession following Thai vacation

In a bid to combat drug abuse among incoming travellers and prevent cross-border smuggling, Operation Merdeka 2025 was carried out at the Bukit Kayu Hitam immigration, customs, quarantine, and security (ICQS) complex.

The operation, led by Chief Inspector Johan Tan, resulted in the inspection of 30 vehicles and 15 motorcycles. Among those inspected, 31 individuals were ordered to undergo urine tests.

The investigations revealed that a Form Six student and her 25-year-old partner were among those who tested positive for various drugs, including ketamine. The student and her partner were arrested at 6am today.

The ages of the detainees ranged from 18 to 40, with the detainees consisting of 21 men and two women. Most of the detainees were first-time users.

Initial investigations suggest that the student and her partner experimented with drugs at entertainment venues. Twenty-three of the individuals tested positive for various drugs, with the others testing positive for cannabis, methamphetamine, and MDMA.

In light of these findings, the Anti-Drug Agency for the Development of Knowledge (AADK) has recommended continued student screenings to detect drug abuse. AADK specifically recommends screenings in schools to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

The AADK emphasised the importance of early detection and intervention in addressing the issue of drug abuse among youth. The agency expressed concern over the increasing number of young people experimenting with drugs and the potential long-term consequences this could have on their lives.

Operation Merdeka 2025 is part of the government's ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse and ensure the safety and security of the nation's borders. The operation serves as a reminder to all citizens of the importance of making responsible choices and prioritising their health and well-being.