Botched Pahang raid leaves member of public injured, National Anti-Drugs Agency considers body cameras for officers

On October 28, the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) announced its intention to discuss the possibility of receiving funding from the Finance Ministry to purchase body cameras for its enforcement officers. This proposal stems from a recommendation made by the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) urging the KDN to prioritize the provision of body cameras for AADK personnel conducting field operations.

AADK's director-general, Datuk Ruslin Jusoh, emphasized the agency's commitment to conducting enforcement operations in a responsible, transparent, and law-abiding manner, with the utmost respect for human rights and public safety. He added that the agency would enhance its risk assessment guidelines and ensure strict compliance with logbook requirements for all enforcement officers.

Following an incident that occurred during a raid in Bera, Pahang on October 13, the EAIC recommended that KDN consider allocating funds for body cameras for AADK enforcement personnel. The EAIC's investigation revealed negligence in the tactical handling of the raid and non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) by the Bera AADK operations team. This failure to adhere to SOPs triggered panic and a scuffle, resulting in injuries to a member of the public or a third party present at the scene.

In response to the EAIC's recommendation, AADK will take appropriate disciplinary action against any officers found to have been negligent or violated SOPs during the enforcement operation in Bera.