Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department dismantled a drug distribution syndicate in Pulau Langkawi by arresting 191 individuals, the police announced today [1, 2]. The crackdown culminated in 231 raids across Langkawi and the Klang Valley targeting drug-related offenses [1, 2].
The operation, named Op Langka, began on April 10 after an intelligence-led investigation that started in January 2026 [1, 2]. Police seized drugs including MDMA, ecstasy, Erimin 5, ketamine, and cannabis, with total seizures valued at RM14.1 million [1, 2]. Among the haul was 177 kilograms of cannabis confiscated in Klang Valley and 82 grammes of MDMA powder in Langkawi [1, 2].
Charges have been filed against the suspects under sections of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and Penal Code, including several repeat offenders [1, 2]. Police suspect some law enforcement personnel were involved in drug distribution in Langkawi and said aggressive action will be taken under the law [1, 2].
A local newspaper report alleging ties to a ‘Pablo Escobar’-style cartel involving a police officer was denied by authorities. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the drug problem in Langkawi is "real but not to such an extent" as a large international cartel [1, 2, 3, 4]. He said, "In Langkawi, it’s not that big of a deal... We act on all the intelligence information we have and our spying is not just after the media reveals it" [3].
The minister urged public calm and rejected calls from Kedah’s Menteri Besar to shoot drug dealers, saying, "It is not as easy as saying ‘shoot’... it is not certain that it will solve the problem" [3]. He confirmed investigations are ongoing into organized crime elements and alleged involvement by police officers, promising no protection for anyone involved [3, 4].
Police will continue to pursue legal action against suspects following the completion of investigations. Bukit Aman is expected to announce further details on prosecutions soon [1, 2].
