Riau police confiscate 35 kg of meth and arrest multiple suspects in Malaysia-linked ring

Operation Sarang Narkoba, led by the Riau Regional Police's Narcotics Investigation Directorate, uncovered a major methamphetamine shipment near Bantan, Bengkalis, resulting in the seizure of 35 kilograms of the drug and 7.4 grams of additional material. Two initial suspects, identified by the initials MZH and WA, were arrested on October 21, and searches of their vehicles revealed the narcotics along with four mobile phones, a motorcycle, two cars and a tablet.

The investigation expanded, leading to arrests of suspects labeled S in Kampar District, JA in Pekanbaru City, and another S in Payakumbuh, who allegedly coordinated distribution from the coast to land couriers. Police say the operation is controlled by a handler in Malaysia and that the seized drugs were intended for distribution across Riau, Medan and South Sumatra. Riau Police Chief Arman Achdiat warned that transnational syndicates use the province as a transit hub, and a special task force is being formed to curb drug abuse in schools. The hunt continues for the individual tasked with delivering the narcotics to Malaysia, who has been placed on a wanted list.