Latest news with #VolunteerSmartphonePatrol
Daily Express
25-04-2025
- Daily Express
152 held and 1.3kg drugs seized in Sandakan Operation
Published on: Friday, April 25, 2025 Published on: Fri, Apr 25, 2025 By: Winnie Kasmir Text Size: Ashmon and his team showing some of the seized drugs. SANDAKAN: The Sandakan District Police launched a special drug op dubbed the Operasi Khas Pemutihan to combat drug abuse and trafficking, resulting in the arrest of 152 individuals and 1.3kg drugs seized. According to Sandakan District Police Chief, ACP Ashmon Bajah, the operation was carried out in 10 hotspots known for drug-related activities, within a one-month period from March 22 to April 20. 'The arrests involved various investigations under Section 39B, Section 39A, Section 15 and Section 12 of the Dangerous Drugs Act. 'These individuals were apprehended during operations conducted in squatter areas, residential neighbourhoods and public places such as markets. 'A total of 1.3kg of various types of drugs were seized, including liquid drugs known as 'vape mushroom,' methamphetamine, ecstasy pills and ketamine. 'Although this may not seem like a large quantity, it indicates that drug supplies are easily accessible, especially given our geographical proximity to neighbouring countries,' he said. He added that six cars of various types, two boats, two motorcycles and eight pieces of jewellery were also confiscated during the operation, with the total value of the seized items reaching RM350,000. This operation is part of PDRM Sandakan's ongoing efforts since 2003. 'From the year 2023 to April 2025, a total of 4,617 individuals were arrested for various drug-related offences. This averages out to five arrests per day,' he stated. Ashmon emphasised that the success could not have been achieved without close cooperation with other agencies and the local community. He urged the public to continue providing information to the police through various channels such as QR codes, the Volunteer Smartphone Patrol (VSP) app, PDRM's official Facebook page, or in person at the police station. 'The identities of informants are guaranteed to be kept confidential, and we have a system in place that is proven to be safe and trustworthy,' he said. He also reminded the public not to harbour individuals involved in these activities, as doing so would only worsen the situation. 'The police and the community must work hand in hand. Combating drug issues is a shared responsibility for the wellbeing of Sandakan,' he stressed. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
24-04-2025
- The Star
Six wanted for drug trafficking, Sandakan police seek public help
KOTA KINABALU: Police are on the hunt for six individuals suspected of drug trafficking in Sandakan and Tawau, with investigations underway under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 — an offence punishable by death or life imprisonment with whipping. The suspects, some of whom are foreign nationals, were last known to reside in Sandakan, Menumbok, and Pulau Sebatik, and are believed to be linked to active trafficking networks. Sandakan OCPD Asst Comm Ahsmon Bajah pleaded for public cooperation to help trace the suspects, noting that community involvement has proven crucial in previous cases. 'I'm sure there are members of the public who, like us, want Sandakan to be a safer and better place,' he said at a press conference on Thursday (April 24). 'If you love Sabah, and if you love Sandakan, please come forward and share any information with us. I assure you, the identity of all informants will be kept strictly confidential.' He also issued a stern warning against harbouring any of the suspects. 'Please, do not let anyone among us attempt to protect or shield these individuals. Doing so will only harm the community,' he said. To make reporting easier, police have introduced a QR code system available on IPD Sandakan's official social media platforms, allowing members of the public to send tip-offs quickly and anonymously. Information can also be submitted via the Volunteer Smartphone Patrol (VSP) app, which is accessible nationwide. Police said they remain committed to dismantling drug networks and ensuring Sandakan does not become a base for narcotics activity.
