IGP: Police identify suspects linked to 1.16-tonne ketamine haul found on Malaysian-owned tanker in Indonesian waters

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 25 — Malaysian police have identified suspects believed to be involved in the attempted smuggling of 1.16 tonnes of ketamine on a Malaysian-owned tanker in Indonesian waters. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail stated that authorities are actively searching for the individuals and aim to make arrests as soon as possible, either today or tomorrow.

"We have identified the individuals and are trying to locate them. The companies and those linked to the case are also known to us," he told the media after attending a university ceremony. Mohd Khalid revealed that the vessel, named MT Global 168, had departed from Johor for Port Klang before heading towards the Andaman Sea, where the ship-to-ship transfer is suspected to have occurred.

The decision to turn back and enter Indonesian waters allowed Indonesian authorities to conduct investigations and make arrests. Malaysia is committed to cooperating with Indonesia to ensure all those involved are brought to justice. The police were informed that the vessel, owned by Malaysians but registered in Mongolia, was intercepted off Tanjung Balai Asahan, North Sumatra, on October 20.

Further details, including vessel ownership, are still being gathered to aid the investigation, given the significant quantity of drugs involved.