Kuala lumpur: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department has foiled an attempt by three Japanese nationals to smuggle 43.36 kg of cannabis buds worth RM4.2 million at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. KLIA Customs director Zulkifli Muhammad stated that the three men, aged between 19 and 42, were detained on November 18 after scans of six pieces of their luggage revealed plastic packages containing plants believed to be cannabis buds.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the cannabis buds were hidden inside packets of dried food in the luggage belonging to the suspects. The seized items have been handed over to the KLIA Customs Enforcement Division for further investigation. Zulkifli explained that the case is being investigated under Section 39B(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment with a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane if the death penalty is not imposed.

Zulkifli emphasized that drug smuggling not only results in revenue losses but also poses a threat to national security and the well-being of the people. He urged anyone with information on smuggling activities to contact the Customs' toll-free line at 1-800-88-8855 or the nearest Customs office.