World · Malaysia Bureau
Five Malaysians arrested in Tokyo with cocaine hidden in shoe soles
Police say five Malaysian nationals were aware they were carrying cocaine when arrested at Tokyo's Haneda Airport with five kilograms of the drug concealed in their footwear. The arrests mark another significant drug seizure involving Malaysian nationals abroad.
LSN Malaysia ·
Five Malaysians have been arrested at Haneda Airport in Tokyo after authorities discovered five kilograms of cocaine hidden in the soles of their shoes, according to police statements. Officials from Bukit Aman indicated that the suspects were cognisant of the narcotics they were transporting when taken into custody.
The discovery represents a substantial drug haul at one of Asia's busiest international aviation hubs. The concealment method—hiding contraband within shoe soles—is a common technique employed by drug smugglers attempting to evade detection at airport security checkpoints.
The arrests add to a growing pattern of Malaysians being apprehended for drug-related offences in foreign jurisdictions. Authorities have intensified scrutiny of passengers originating from Malaysia as international cooperation on narcotics enforcement continues to expand.
The five individuals now face charges under Japanese drug laws, which carry severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences. The case underscores ongoing concerns about Malaysia's role in regional drug trafficking networks and the vulnerability of nationals to recruitment by international smuggling syndicates.