Brunei Intensifies Efforts Against International Drug Cartel Activities
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Bandar Seri Begawan, Dec 22 (NationPress) The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) of Brunei has successfully disrupted a scheme to exploit Brunei as a transit point for drug trafficking orchestrated by a global drug syndicate, reportedly operating from the Americas, as per local media reports on Sunday.
The NCB initiated an operation dubbed 'Blockad' in early November, uncovering plans to smuggle narcotics from Brunei to various destinations including the Middle East, Europe, East Asia, and Australia, according to the Xinhua news agency, citing the local daily Borneo Bulletin.
During this operation, the NCB intercepted air shipments containing 36.73 kg of methamphetamine, marking the largest drug bust in Brunei's history, eclipsing the previous record of 19 kg seized during Operation Musang King in 2020.
The drug syndicate is suspected to be based in the Americas, using speakers and computers to conceal their illicit substances and rerouting packages to other nations through courier services. Investigations have uncovered efforts to recruit local individuals to facilitate these operations.
The NCB has sought assistance from regional and international organizations, including the US Drug Enforcement Administration, to identify and arrest those responsible for the syndicate.
On December 19, Brunei also distributed 1,500 calendars for 2025 aimed at promoting awareness about the significance of maintaining a drug-free lifestyle.
This initiative was a collaborative effort between the IT Protective Security Services (ITPSS) and Brunei's Narcotics Control Bureau.
The calendars, created by ITPSS, included monthly messages emphasizing the consequences of drug abuse and the need for prevention.
Brunei, a Sultanate in Southeast Asia, firmly enforces stringent laws against drugs, alcohol, and tobacco to protect the health and safety of its citizens.
In a related effort, on December 4, the Royal Brunei Police Force confiscated 24 bottles of alcohol and 50 cartons of cigarettes during a crackdown.
Two local men were apprehended, and a white vehicle suspected of involvement in illicit activities was intercepted.
The suspects were found with prohibited items and were promptly taken into custody.
In Brunei, the manufacture and sale of tobacco and alcohol are completely banned. Those caught smuggling tobacco face heavy fines or imprisonment.
