KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 28 Malaysians have been detained for being drug mules overseas, says Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Kamarudin Md Din.

       The Bukit Aman Narcotic Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director said this is an increase compared to last year, where 17 individuals were detained.

       "In 2021, 32 Malaysians were detained for being drug mules, and they were arrested at various entry points of foreign countries," he said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 28).

       Comm Mohd Kamarudin said that the syndicates used the mules to smuggle drugs to various countries.

       "Each drug mule is paid between RM5,000 and RM10,000. They were often recruited through social media," he added.

       Comm Mohd Kamarudin said the situation is worrying, and Malaysians are urged to be more careful and not be easily duped by any offer that promises high returns.

       'The syndicate would use tactics to entice people to smuggle drugs for them, including offering high pay. We urge those with information on any suspicious offers, including for free vacation or high-paying overseas work, to contact the NCID hotline at 012-2087222 as soon as possible," he said.

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