Soekarno-Hatta Customs: Malaysian Pilot Tests Positive for Drugs While Operating Flight

The Head of the Soekarno-Hatta Customs Main Service Office in Tangerang, Banten, Hengky Tomuan Parlindungan Aritonang, revealed that a Malaysian pilot, identified by the initials MS (39), tested positive for narcotics while operating a flight to Indonesia.

“The pilot tested positive for MDMA, ecstasy, methamphetamine, and cocaine in his urine test. This implies he was likely under the influence while flying to Indonesia,” Hengky explained in Tangerang on Friday.

The aircraft, flight MH727 on the Kuala Lumpur–Indonesia route, was carrying at least 170 passengers. It is suspected that the pilot was in a state of drug use during the journey.

Investigations revealed that the pilot had been involved in drug smuggling on three previous occasions. His first instance involved transporting methamphetamine to Sabah, Malaysia; his second involved smuggling 7 kilograms of methamphetamine to Jakarta; and the third, involving ecstasy and methamphetamine, was intercepted by Soekarno-Hatta Customs officers.

“In addition to the 14 packets found, he was also carrying 4 grams of methamphetamine within his personal belongings,” he added.

Inside a large suitcase, officials discovered a total of 14 packets of ecstasy containing 70,144 pills, hidden beneath a pile of clothing.

Hengky further stated that the suspect was allegedly paid approximately 50,000 ringgit (equivalent to around Rp220 million) by a mastermind who is currently the subject of ongoing investigations.