A significant drug smuggling attempt was foiled at Singapore's Tuas Checkpoint on the morning of September 20, 2025, leading to the arrest of a 37-year-old Malaysian man. The interception prevented a large quantity of narcotics, with an estimated street value of over 272,000 Singapore dollars, from entering the country.
The operation began when vigilant officers from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority directed a Malaysia-registered car for enhanced inspection. During a thorough search of the vehicle, officers discovered two black bundles suspected to contain controlled drugs. These bundles were found concealed within a panel in the rear boot of the car.
Following this initial discovery, the Central Narcotics Bureau was immediately alerted. CNB officers arrived on the scene and conducted a more extensive examination of the vehicle. This secondary inspection led to the uncovering of an additional six black bundles hidden in various other compartments of the car, demonstrating a deliberate attempt to evade detection.
In total, the authorities seized a substantial haul of illegal substances from the vehicle. The confiscated drugs included approximately 1,908 grams of heroin, 1,655 grams of cannabis, and 268 grams of 'Ice', the street name for methamphetamine. The combined seizure is significant, with the CNB estimating that the drugs could have sustained the addictions of about 1,300 abusers for a full week.
The 37-year-old Malaysian driver was placed under arrest at the scene. Investigations into the case are currently ongoing. The penalties for drug trafficking in Singapore are severe. Under Section 7 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, individuals convicted of importing specific quantities of drugs face mandatory capital punishment. These thresholds include more than 15 grams of diamorphine (pure heroin), more than 250 grams of methamphetamine, or more than 500 grams of cannabis.
In a joint statement released on September 23, 2025, the ICA and CNB reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Singapore's borders. They emphasized that both agencies will continue to work closely together to prevent all forms of smuggling, including drugs, weapons, explosives, and other contraband. The successful seizure underscores the effectiveness of rigorous checks and inter-agency cooperation in maintaining border security.
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