​The Narcotics Control Bureau, NCB conducted the "Operasi Tupai" on 20th May targeting a drug trafficking syndicate operating in Belait District. The operation has arrested 16 individuals comprising locals and permanent residents aged between 23 and 60 believed to be involved in drug distribution and abuse activities. The syndicate was masterminded by a 60-year-old local who has long been active in drug abuse and trafficking activities. Although the main mastermind was often arrested by NCB for drug trafficking and was once sentenced to imprisonment by the Court, he continuously engaged in drug trafficking activities.  

The main mastermind's modus operandi was to carry out drug trafficking activities by moving around and not settling in order to confuse the N-C-B. The suspect was known to increase drug trafficking activities in the Belait District by taking advantage of the fall of another syndicate that was previously foiled such as "Operasi Pirates" and "Operasi Sai-Gone". In the operation, NCB seized 59.13 grammes of Syabu and 1.28 grammes of cannabis. The confiscated Syabu was estimated to be worth over $10,000 in the local market and can accommodate at least 590 drug addicts.

The operation also seized cash amounting to $681 believed to be proceeds from drug trafficking activities, drugs paraphernalia and equipment believed to be used for packaging that is drugs 'packing' such as digital scales, scissors and empty transparent packets. The main suspect and the network of syndicate sellers will also be investigated under Section 3-A, Misuse of Drugs Act, Chapter 27 for the offence of possessing controlled drugs for the purpose of distribution and if convicted with the amount of drugs seized, can carry a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and 15 strokes of whipping and a minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and 5 strokes of whipping.

The NCB emphasised that the NCB will continue to track drug criminals in the country wherever they are and will not hesitate to take legal action against them. Drug trafficking is a crime that needs to be given serious attention by the citizens and residents because drug trafficking, even in small amounts, can destroy the lives of those who are addicted to drugs and will subsequently affect the lives of their families and the surrounding community.

Source:
RTB NEWS

by RTB NEWS

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