JITRA: Nine lorry drivers and two attendants were detained after testing positive for methamphetamine during a special operation targeting commercial vehicles travelling southbound on the North-South Expressway near the Jitra Toll Plaza.
All those detained, aged between 20 and 50, were locals and were nabbed after tests conducted by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), in the Ops Khas which ran from Aug 1 through yesterday.
Kedah Road Transport Department (RTD) director Stien Van Lutam said many of those detained claimed they used drugs to stay awake and drive longer distances.
He however dismissed those claims, noting many other drivers manage to drive long distances without resorting to illegal substances.
"In response, the RTD will suspend their driving licenses and audit their employers for hiring incompetent drivers who use illegal substances.
"Companies involved may face suspension or even revocation of their vehicle operating permits if they fail the audit," he told reporters yesterday.
Stien said truck drivers using drugs could pose serious risks, especially to smaller vehicles.
"In addition, two trailer drivers, including a woman in her 20s, were fined for driving trailers with cracked tires, which also endangers other road users," he added.
Commenting further, Stien said 32,526 vehicles were inspected during the operation, with 1,388 actions taken for various offences.
He said 3,777 notices were issued for non-compliance with various laws and regulations.
"The RTD issued the highest number of fines (603 fines) against commercial and public transport drivers for expired Motor Vehicle Licenses.
"Three other violations that saw the highest fines issued were for lacking insurance, lacking a competent driving license, and technical issues, with 482, 467, and 431 fines issued respectively," he added.
He said the operation aims to reduce accidents, severe injuries, and fatalities on the highway, as well as to ease traffic congestion, particularly on expressways.