JOHOR BARU: Police have dismantled a drug ring supplying partygoers at nightclubs in the state with ecstasy packed in alien-themed angpows, following the arrest of two men.
Police also seized drugs worth an estimated RM210,721.
The suspects had been selling the ecstasy for between RM150 and RM200 per angpow packet. The packets featured a design resembling a US$100 bill, with the image of Benjamin Franklin replaced by an alien.
The duo's illicit operations were uncovered after police detained a 33-year-old man acting suspiciously while filling his tyres with air at a petrol station in Taman Pelangi on Dec 21.
A stash of drugs was found in the vehicle during an inspection, and the man later led police to his rented house in the same neighbourhood, which he shared with his 40-year-old housemate. The housemate was arrested after police discovered narcotics in the house.
Both suspects have prior criminal and drug-related records and tested positive for methamphetamine and ketamine.
Johor Baru (South) Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat said the syndicate is believed to have been active since October. The rented house was allegedly used to repack and store drugs for distribution.
"Investigations revealed the drugs were sold to partygoers at entertainment outlets," Raub said during a press conference at the district police headquarters.
In total, police seized 1.2kg of ecstasy powder, Erimin 5 pills, and ketamine. They also confiscated a Perodua Myvi, a set of house keys, and RM120 in cash.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the drug supply, and Raub said more arrests of suspected syndicate members are expected.
The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment upon conviction.