KUCHING: The Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) has enhanced its service structure in Sarawak by establishing new narcotics units in 13 districts across the state.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said the districts involved are Lundu, Belaga, Marudi, Matu Daro, Maradong, Simunjan, Julau, Lubok Antu, Kanowit, Saratok, Tatau, Dalat, and Song.
Additionally, he said a Secretariat of the Narcotics Nucleus (SNN) office will also be established in Tebedu to monitor drug-related activities along the border with Indonesia.
“Previously, these 13 districts did not have any dedicated units or personnel to handle drug-related issues. Moving forward, each district will be assigned seven officers responsible for managing these matters.
“I am confident that with the establishment of the SNN and the support extended by the Sarawak government, it will significantly improve the ability of our narcotics unit in monitoring the border areas,” he said.
He was addressing a press conference after attending the Narcotics Special Forum with the NCID and One Stop Committee (OSC) at Pullman Hotel today (Oct 8).
Ayob also expressed gratitude to the Sarawak government, noting that Sarawak is the only state so far to provide support to NCID through funding and equipment.
He said that the Sarawak government has allocated RM1.7 million to procure instant visual drug detectors and handheld backscatter devices.
Furthermore, he said the Sarawak government will also be providing three four-wheel drive vehicles for the narcotics unit to facilitate their operations.
“This is the first time we are placing backscatter technology in Sarawak. Previously, it was only available in Peninsular Malaysia. With the assistance provided by the state government, such as these handheld scanners, we can better control the inflow of drugs.
“We must leverage new technology to address drug-related issues. If we continue to rely solely on outdated methods, we will lag behind.
“We cannot depend only on personnel strength. Technology will indeed support our efforts,” he added.
Present at the press conference was Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
