27 drug addicts arrested at 'port bakau'

JOHOR BAHRU - A total of 27 individuals suspected to be drug addicts were arrested in a (Jihad) operation on Monday.

Jihad is a programme initiated by the state government in its ​efforts to combat the threat of drugss among the community.

State Health and Unity Exco Ling Tian Soon said 26 men and a woman between the age of 20 to 59-years-old were arrested.

He said urine testing found 20 individuals positive for drugs.

"The Jihad operations involved 47 National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) personnel divided into three groups. After receiving several reports, the operation was conducted by inspecting residences.

"The raids were done at the 'den' of the addicts situated near a river and was filled with mangroves. The area was known among addicts as 'port bakau'," he said.

He stated investigation papers will be opened and those involved will be charged under Section 31A of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1983 while individuals who tested negative will be released.

Ling said there were 17 other drug ports that have been identified in the state and they have been classified as hotspots.

He said AADK and the police will continue to cooperate and conduct stricter enforcement at all the related hotspots.

"We have also asked local authorities to aid in cleaning the areas," he said.