24-2-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) In a major crackdown on illicit drug trafficking, Myanmar’s Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) revealed on Friday that naval authorities successfully seized 1.5 tons of methamphetamine en route to Malaysia. The interception took place in Pathein township of Ayeyarwady region on February 12, following an extensive investigation that unfolded after naval authorities inspected a suspicious boat in Myanmar territorial waters near Hainggyikyun town of Ayeyarwady region on January 22.
As part of the ongoing operation, Myanmar authorities conducted further raids in Mandalay and Taninthayi regions between February 14 and 16, leading to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and controlled substances, according to CCDAC.
The firearms seized included two guns and 91 bullets, while the controlled chemicals confiscated comprised 16,400 liters of methylamine, 1,200 liters of sulphuric acid, 560 liters of hydrochloric acid, and 12,400 liters of benzyl cyanide, the committee reported.
The combined value of the confiscated narcotics and controlled substances is estimated to be over 45.28 billion kyats, equivalent to more than 21 million U.S. dollars.
The CCDAC disclosed that the illicit substances, originating from Shan state and stored in Mandalay, were intended for transportation into Malaysian waters via Pathein. A total of 19 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the case and are now facing charges under Myanmar’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law.
