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Kelantan Police Identify Criminal Group Involved in Extortion and Drug Trafficking
KOTA BARU, May 27 - A criminal group in Kelantan, believed to be involved in extortion and drug trafficking activities, has targeted several individuals in the state, including a goldsmith shop owner, according to the Kelantan police chief.
Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat disclosed that the group, with suspected links to criminal partners in neighboring countries, has been active in the state for an extended period. The group is said to have demanded protection money and extortion from various victims, including the goldsmith in Palekbang, Tumpat.
Recently, the group was alleged to have demanded 80 kilograms of gold, estimated to be worth approximately RM40 million, from the goldsmith. However, it is unclear if this demand was met.
In a video clip that went viral on May 20, the goldsmith's vehicle was stopped before he was forced into a grey Suzuki Swift, highlighting the boldness of the group's actions.
Mohd Yusoff urged the public not to believe unverified reports about the case, stressing the importance of waiting for factual information from ongoing investigations.
The criminal group's activities also include drug trafficking, as they face financial difficulties due to strict police actions following a cross-border ban since December last year. The police have reportedly put pressure on these groups by cracking down on cross-border drug trafficking.
Similar cases of drug trafficking and extortion have been observed elsewhere in Malaysia, with traffickers often involved in violent crimes. These incidents underscore the need for effective law enforcement and collaboration among various agencies to combat organized crime in the country.
- The criminal group identified by the Kelantan Police, known for their involvement in extortion and drug trafficking, is suspected to have links with criminal partners in neighboring countries, extending their operations and criminal activities to general news and politics in Malaysia.
- As the Kelantan police continue their investigations into the criminal group's activities, which include extortion and drug trafficking, they have warned the public not to believe unverified reports, while stressing the importance of effective law enforcement and collaboration among agencies in addressing organized crime incidents throughout Malaysia, such as crime-and-justice issues.
