Police uncover ketum processing site in chicken coop during raid in Ranau

A man was arrested in Kampung Dumpiring, Kundasang, on 13 October 2025 after police uncovered a concealed ketum processing operation inside a chicken coop.

The 44-year-old suspect was detained at 2:00pm by officers from the Narcotics Crime Investigation Division (BSJN) of the Ranau District Police Headquarters (IPD), following intelligence received regarding the illegal activity.

According to Ranau District Police Chief, Superintendent Mursalin Mahmud, a search of the premises revealed multiple items believed to be used in the preparation of ketum-based substances.

Among the items confiscated were a blue basin containing 24 plastic bottles suspected to contain ketum, an aluminium pot, two cooking stoves, a gas cylinder, a metal stove base, and an additional 12 litres of ketum liquid.

In a storage area behind the suspect’s house, officers also discovered a transparent plastic package containing one kilogram of ketum powder and a polystyrene box.

“All seized items have been taken in as evidence for further investigation. The unemployed suspect was brought to the BSJN office at IPD Ranau for follow-up action,” Mursalin said in an official statement on 14 October 2025.

Authorities are conducting further interrogation to identify the suspect’s supply sources and any possible ketum distribution networks.

The case is being investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952 for the possession and processing of prohibited substances.

In a separate operation conducted the same night, police inspected three entertainment outlets in the Ranau district as part of ongoing crime prevention and licensing enforcement.

During the checks, which took place between 9:30pm and 10:37pm, a total of 23 patrons, three premises supervisors, and all staff members were found to have valid identification documents.

“No arrests or seizures were made during the inspections. The aim of the operation was to ensure entertainment premises comply with regulations and operate within legal limits,” Mursalin stated.

The police have reiterated their commitment to monitoring illegal drug-related activities and maintaining order in public venues through routine enforcement.