Kedah: Two National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) auxiliary policemen suspected of supplying drugs to 47 clients at the Serdang Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre (Puspen) in Kedah will be brought before the disciplinary board tomorrow, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the action followed the removal and transfer of the two support staff members from the Serdang Puspen to the Kedah AADK over their alleged involvement in the case. Saifuddin Nasution emphasized that the ministry would not tolerate such offences, likening the situation to a Malay adage that describes betrayal by trusted individuals.
Investigations revealed that three support staff members were involved. One was dismissed last October after testing positive for drugs and supplying the prohibited substance. The other two, although initially testing negative, were also found to be involved and will face the disciplinary board tomorrow, Saifuddin Nasution stated at a press conference after attending a programme at Bachok Puspen.
Last Thursday, the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) uncovered protocol breaches by officers at the Serdang Puspen, leading to 47 clients testing positive for methamphetamine. Consequently, EAIC referred the investigation findings to the Disciplinary Authority of the AADK, recommending disciplinary action under Regulation 38 of the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993.
The commission also suggested implementing stricter regulations to prevent prohibited substances from entering Puspen. Meanwhile, Saifuddin Nasution reported that the AADK had achieved an effectiveness rate of nearly 80 percent in its recovery programmes, reflecting the success of the agency's treatment module.
He explained that success is evaluated not only by recovery rates but also by clients' ability to avoid relapses post-treatment. The AADK recovery module offers a comprehensive approach addressing spiritual, social, emotional, and cognitive aspects, ensuring holistic treatment.
Saifuddin Nasution also mentioned amendments to the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act, which decriminalise voluntary clients to encourage more individuals to seek treatment. This move aims to change societal stigma by viewing clients as patients needing treatment rather than criminals, facilitating easier access to help for them and their families. Voluntary participants will not have their names recorded on the criminal list.