A routine check at the border between Malaysia and Singapore has led to the arrest of a 22-year-old Malaysian. During an inspection of his vehicle on August 1, employees of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) discovered a hidden shipment of drugs. In total, 8,646 kilograms of cannabis and 1,569 kilograms of methamphetamine (ICE) were seized. According to Singaporean authorities, the drugs represent a street value of over 361.000 Singapore dollars.
Hidden in the trunk
The man was selected for an additional check at the Woodlands Checkpoint, one of the busiest border crossings between Malaysia and Singapore. During the inspection, customs officers found a box containing packages suspected of containing drugs. Specialists from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) were subsequently called in and, upon further investigation, found even more narcotics in the car.
According to the authorities, the seized quantity would be sufficient to sustain the addiction of more than 2.100 users for a week. The investigation into the origin and destination of the drugs is still ongoing.
One of the strictest drug laws in the world
Singapore is known for its tough approach to drug crime. Anyone attempting to bring more than 500 grams of cannabis or 250 grams of methamphetamine into the country can be sentenced to death. The amount found on the 22-year-old man is many times above this legal limit.
The strict legislation regularly leads to international criticism from human rights organizations. However, the Singaporean government maintains that the harsh penalties are necessary to effectively combat drug trafficking and organized crime.
Stark contrast with international developments
The case stands out in a period when more and more countries are relaxing their cannabis policies. While various European countries and parts of North America are experimenting with legalization or decriminalization, Singapore continues to adhere to a zero-tolerance policy. This creates a sharp contrast in the way countries worldwide deal with cannabis and other narcotics.
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The arrest of the 22-year-old Malaysian demonstrates once again how strictly Singapore cracks down on drug smuggling. With over 8,6 kilos of cannabis and 1,5 kilos of methamphetamine in his vehicle, the suspect far exceeds the legal limits for which the death penalty can be imposed. The outcome of the criminal investigation will be awaited in the coming period.
Source: straitstimes. com
