KUALA LUMPUR: The public should remain cautious of dubious job offers that could lead them to become pawns for drug syndicates, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He praised the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency for thwarting an attempt to smuggle cannabis buds worth RM8.3mil to Manchester, Britain.
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said many Malaysians are lured by promises of easy money, free travel or high paying courier jobs.
He said they only discover too late that they have become pawns in international drug trafficking operations.
"The drug bust also involved the arrests of four drug mules in their 20s, who were lured via a lucrative job offer on TikTok," said Lee on Saturday (Nov 8).
"Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Anyone caught carrying drugs, even if they claim they did not know, can still face the death penalty under Malaysian law or life imprisonment overseas," he said.
Lee said AKPS vigilance prevented dangerous drugs from leaving the country and praised the new agency's professionalism and commitment to safeguarding Malaysia's borders.
"This case is a stark reminder that drug syndicates are using increasingly creative and manipulative methods to recruit unsuspecting individuals," he said.
He said this includes through social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.
"The public should remain alert and be cautious with online job offers, especially those involving overseas travel with vague or unrealistic promises," he added.
He reminded the public never to carry or check in luggage for anyone, particularly strangers or online acquaintances.
"Be wary of high paying job offers on social media without clear job scopes," he said.
"Avoid being swayed by videos promoting luxury lifestyles or quick wealth, as these may be tactics by drug syndicates," added Lee.
Lee said parents should monitor their children's online activities as young people are often the most vulnerable targets.
"Report suspicious messages, offers or individuals to the authorities immediately," he said.
He said the country cannot afford to lose more lives to drug syndicates.
"Every citizen must stay alert and well informed," he said.
"Social media may seem harmless, but it has become a powerful tool for criminals to recruit drug mules, money mules and scam victims," he added.
He said long term success against drug trafficking depends on continuous public education and awareness.
"Credit must be given to AKPS and other enforcement agencies for their commitment to protecting Malaysia's borders," he said.
"However, the best way to fight drug trafficking is by ensuring Malaysians do not fall into the trap in the first place," he added.