JITRA: A 37-year-old Thai man has been charged with trafficking a massive haul of drugs valued at nearly RM11 million, a crime that could see him sentenced to death or life imprisonment under Malaysian law.
Muhammad Chemudo was brought before the Magistrate’s Court here today, where the charge was read out. He acknowledged the charge but no plea was taken as the case is to be heard by the High Court.
The alleged offence took place in a forested area in Durian Burung, Padang Terap, where authorities said 331 kilogrammes of methamphetamine were involved.
The charge falls under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, one of Malaysia’s toughest laws aimed at curbing large-scale drug trafficking.
Muhammad also faced a separate charge of drug abuse after admitting to injecting amphetamine and methamphetamine while in police custody.
He pleaded guilty to the self-administration charge, and the court set April 21 for mention to facilitate the appointment of a Thai interpreter.
The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Nasruna Anhar Nordien, with the accused appearing without legal representation.
The case once again highlights the challenges faced by authorities in combating drug trafficking networks operating across borders, particularly through remote forest routes.
