Eleven individuals, comprising 6 men and 5 women, aged between 24 and 51, were detained in an operation carried out by the Narcotics Control Bureau, NCB, on the 1st of November, 2021. They were arrested on suspicion of involvement in a drug trafficking syndicate. The operation was a continuation of 'Operasi Black' carried out last September.
In the operation conducted in three areas in Brunei Muara District, the NCB seized several plastic packets believed to contain the drug known as syabu with a total weight of about 173.27 grams that can accommodate some 1,400 users. Also seized were cannabis weighing 9.93 grams, digital scales, drug paraphernalia and cash amounting to $3,280 believed to be proceeds of drug trafficking. All suspects were detained for investigation under the Misuse of Drugs Act, Chapter 27 and Section 3 of the Criminal Asset Recovery Order 2012 for money laundering.
In light of the country's situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCB is still continuing its efforts in combating drug activities, especially in foiling syndicates that are responsible for ruining the community's life and family harmony. During the pandemic, drug trafficking activities are still rampant regardless of the COVID-19 outbreak. In most of the operations conducted by the NCB, several of those arrested have tested positive for COVID-19 because of their irresponsible attitude in continuing the illegal activities. Although there are significant risks and difficulties in taking action, however, it has not obstructed NCB in its efforts to ensure that the country's communities are free from the threat of drugs. The NCB also calls on the public in the country to unite and assist enforcement agencies in combating illegal activities in order to protect the community and assist the Ministry of Health in its efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.
The NCB also expressed its appreciation to the security intelligence and enforcement agencies in the country for their assistance and cooperation towards the success of the operation.
Source: Radio Television Brunei