| James Kon |
FIVE locals and two permanent residents suspected of drug abuse were arrested during an operation codenamed Operasi Kilat by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on July 13.
The operation involved 34 officers and targetted areas where suspicious drug-related activities were believed to take place. Three men were arrested during a raid at a house in Kampong Sungai Lampai. Officers also seized a modified utensil believed to be used for drug consumption.
In a separate case, four men were arrested for suspected drug abuse at the Dermaga Diraja area, with repeated offenders among them. The suspects admitted to previous illegal activities.
The suspects are investigated under Section 6 (b) of the Misuse of Drug Act (MDA) chapter 27 for consumption of controlled drugs, which carries a penalty of imprisonment of up to 10 years, or a fine of BND20,000, or both.
Second and subsequent offences under Section 6 (b) of MDA, Chapter 27 carries a mandatory penalty of three years of imprisonment.
The suspects will also face penalties of imprisonment of up to three years, or a fine of BND10,000, or both for the possession of utensils used for drug consumption under Section 7 of MDA, chapter 27.
The NCB reminded the public to abide laws, and that drug offences, as well as involvement in any form of illegal drug activities are regarded as serious offences.
Members of the public can contact BKN at 2448877 (office hours), hotline 8777444 (after working hours), or e-mail ncb@narcotics.gov.bn if they have information on drug abuse activities.