SANDAKAN: Residents of Kampung Seng Kee and Kampung Gelam Laut have voiced growing concern over the alleged emergence of a new drug known locally as “magic mushroom” or “piu-piu,” which has reportedly been circulating for the past two months and is believed to cause users to lose self-control and disturb public order.
Former Karamunting State Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin, accompanied by his entourage including several village heads, on Tuesday held a meeting with police authorities to discuss prevention and enforcement strategies to tackle the issue.
The meeting was also attended by Sandakan District Criminal Investigation Chief DSP Che Rafizi Che Ramli, District Special Branch Chief DSP Roslee Haris, District Internal Security and Public Order Chief DSP Sham Osman, and District Narcotics Criminal Investigation Chief ASP Kisshen Hafize Ezwan.
Police have stated that investigations and efforts to trace the source of the substance are being stepped up through intelligence-gathering and robust enforcement actions to curb its spread.
George affirmed his party’s full cooperation with the police and urged residents to immediately report any suspicious activities, particularly individuals suspected of using or distributing drugs.
He also called on village chiefs and residents to serve as the “eyes and ears” of the authorities by vigilantly monitoring and reporting any untoward incidents. Additionally, he plans to organise anti-drug awareness programmes in schools to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse and vaping.
George further proposed that identified harmful substances being abused as drugs be reviewed for inclusion under relevant laws, if they are not already regulated, to enable strict legal action against sellers and distributors. – James Leong
George Hiew (fifth from left), and his entourage with senior police officers after their meeting on Tuesday.
