Singaporean man and his newlywed wife arrested for drug trafficking business in Malaysia

SINGAPORE: A Singaporean man and his wife have been arrested in Malaysia after allegedly running a cross-border drug trafficking operation just three months into their marriage.

The couple, aged 38 and 41, were detained at a residence in Malacca during a police raid conducted at around 11 a.m. on Monday (May 26), according to a report by Malaysian daily China Press.

Malaysian police seized an assortment of narcotics with an estimated street value of RM16,000 (approximately S$4,861). The drugs included 212 ecstasy tablets, 42 “5-star” pills, 13.70 grams of methamphetamine, 10 grams of marijuana, and 127.50 ml of liquid ketamine. A car and motorcycle believed to be used in the couple’s operation were also confiscated.

Investigators say the drugs were likely intended for local distribution, with enough supply to reach an estimated 786 users. Authorities believe the operation was a small-scale but active “husband-and-wife” syndicate based in Malacca.

Of particular concern to authorities is the liquid ketamine, which police say can be infused into e-cigarettes and can mask the drug’s presence. Experts say this is concerning as such disguised narcotics can more easily make their way into schools and campuses.

The male suspect has a prior criminal record for drug-related offences. Both he and his wife tested positive for drug use in urine screenings.

Investigations are ongoing.