Penang SPM student arrested for drug use after Thailand trip

A 17-year-old SPM candidate from Penang has been arrested for drug use after returning from a holiday in Thailand. The teenager, who admitted taking ketamine out of stress and curiosity, was detained by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) at the Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in Kedah.

*A 17-year-old Penang SPM student was caught for drug use after a trip to Thailand.*
Image credit: AADK

Four teenagers caught at immigration

The arrest happened at about 3:45 PM on 16 September at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (ICQS). Berita Harian reported that the boy and his three 18-year-old friends were riding on two motorcycles when they were stopped for screening. Urine tests later showed all four were positive for ketamine. Reports indicated that they had shared a cigarette laced with the drug during the trip.

The teenager and his friends were all caught as drugs use — Image credit: CNA *For illustration purpose only*

Penang SPM boy a repeat drug offender

During questioning, the SPM student admitted it was not his first time. He had tried ketamine on a previous trip to Thailand and told officers he wanted to “relieve stress” and “just try it out”.

The boy is an only child and has been living with his grandparents since his parents’ divorce. He said exam pressure and personal struggles pushed him into experimenting with drugs.

The boy said that he use drug as he was stress and just want to try — Image credit: Pixababy (Pexels) *For illustration purpose only*

Wider operation and legal action

Through the operation, a total of six teenagers, aged 17 to 19, were arrested, All six teenagers tested positive for drug usage and are currently under investigation.

Authorities confirmed the group is being investigated under Section 3(1) of the Drug Addicts (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983. The law covers drug users and aims to provide both rehabilitation and legal consequences.