Malaysian Couple Arrested in Mauritius for Cannabis Smuggling Worth RM9.87 Million

Three Malaysians, including a couple, were arrested at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Mauritius on November 2 for attempting to smuggle cannabis, with a total of 76.14 kilograms seized, valued at approximately RM9.87 million (USD 2.1 million). The couple, aged 22 and 18, along with a 30-year-old man, were identified after arriving on an Emirates flight from Dubai.

According to Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, the Director of the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) in Malaysia, investigations revealed that the couple was recruited through social media, specifically via the Telegram app. They were offered RM1,000 (USD 220) for each bag they transported and agreed to carry four bags in total. The couple was instructed to travel to Bangkok, Thailand, to collect the drugs before continuing to Mauritius.

“Hussein said the couple was aware of the illegal nature of their actions and knew what they were carrying.”Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, Director of Narcotics Crime Investigation Department

Upon their arrival in Mauritius, customs officials conducted a thorough inspection of their luggage, which revealed 60 vacuum-sealed packages containing the suspected cannabis weighing about 65 kilograms. The authorities acted on intelligence received from the JSJN, leading to the timely interception of the smuggling attempt. The third individual, who reportedly worked as a security officer in Singapore, was also implicated, having brought an additional 10.9 kg of cannabis.

Hussein said the couple was aware of the illegal nature of their actions and knew what they were carrying. The third individual was also implicated in the smuggling attempt.

“Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the couple was offered RM1,000 for each bag they transported and agreed to carry four bags in total.”Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, Director of Narcotics Crime Investigation Department

Notably, this incident is not isolated; Mauritius has seen a rise in drug trafficking cases involving Malaysians. Just weeks prior, another Malaysian was arrested at the same airport with 17.8 kg of cannabis, also arriving from Dubai.

As the investigation continues, authorities in both Malaysia and Mauritius are collaborating to address the growing issue of drug trafficking.