Johor: Johor police have successfully dismantled 21 drug trafficking syndicates and seized illegal narcotics valued at RM81.07 million within the first five months of this year. Johor police chief Datuk M. Kumar announced the accomplishment, highlighting the efforts of the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (JSJN) which resulted in the arrest of 58 syndicate members and asset seizures amounting to RM2.26 million.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JSJN also recorded a total of 10,794 arrests for various drug offences during the same period. The department seized drugs worth RM83.18 million and confiscated assets valued at RM7.49 million. Kumar, speaking at the Johor Police Contingent Headquarters monthly gathering, noted that the Internal Security and Public Order Department reported seizures of illicit cigarettes worth RM48,000 and misappropriated subsidised palm oil worth RM1.11 million.

The Criminal Investigation Department contributed significantly by achieving a 59.64 percent resolution rate for index crimes during the specified period. Kumar also addressed concerning social issues, reporting 54 rape cases involving teenagers since the previous year. He attributed the issue to factors such as easy access to pornographic content on social media, a lack of legal awareness, and family breakdowns, which lead to teenagers missing essential attention and supervision.

Proactive measures are being taken to tackle these issues, with the Sexual Investigation Unit conducting school visits to educate students on these crimes. Kumar urged all stakeholders to address these cases earnestly, advising parents to nurture their children with strong religious and moral values and to remain vigilant about their activities and social interactions.

During the monthly gathering, 47 individuals were honored with appreciation awards, including four members of the public and 43 police officers of various ranks, alongside public servants from the Johor contingent.