JOHOR BARU - TWO drug trafficking syndicates helmed by Singaporeans were busted and drugs worth RM1.5 million (S$624,800) were seized on Tuesday.

Thirteen members, including two masterminds, were picked up in the raids at Larkin Utama and Taman Century.

The suspects are aged between 20 and 66. The drugs consisted of 26kg of Ketamin, Eramin 5 pills, Syabu and Ecstasy pills.

Police also seized eight vehicles worth RM360,000 and RM38,000 as well as S$14,845 belonging to the syndicates.

Acting Johor police chief Senior Asst Comm I Datuk Tun Hisan Tun Hamzah said the syndicates, which have been operating for the past six months, sold the drugs locally and in Singapore.

He said six suspects would be remanded until Dec 20 and charged under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drug Act 1952 which carries the death penalty. 'Seven others will be held under the Special Preventive Laws,' he told a press conference here on Wednesday.

In another case, the man who allegedly slashed a 31-year-old construction site supervisor in the face and neck has been remanded until Sunday.

On Sunday, Teh Hiang Seng, who works in Singapore, was slashed by the man in a robbery attempt.

SAC I Tun Hisan said the 41-year-old suspect has a police record since 1983. -- THE STAR