Arrested man claims he sold drugs to pay his medical bills

KUCHING: An unemployed man arrested during a drug raid at a house in Leboh Sekama, here yesterday claimed he resorted to selling drugs to pay his medical bills.

State Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) chief Supt Sahar Abdul Latif said the suspect was arrested at12.30pm following a tip-off from the public.

He said checks inside the 40-year- old suspect’s house uncovered dried leaves believed to be cannabis, 55 cannabis-filled cigarette sticks, and 29 Ecstasy pills kept in a drawer.

“The suspect admitted that the drugs seized was his and claimed that his involvement in drug distribution, which has been going on for over a year, was to pay for treatment for his kidney failure,” Sahar said in a statement.

The seized drugs were estimated to be worth RM9,520.

The suspect has been detained to facilitate police investigation under Section 39A(2) and 39A(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

Sahar also urged the public to continue cooperating with the police by channeling information on drug-related matters.

“The suspect’s arrest was due to a tip- off from the public and our investigation, and we welcome anyone with information on criminal activities to inform the police so that action can be taken.”