Malaysian caught at airport with heroin concealed in food tins

A Malaysian national was arrested at the Macau International Airport (MIA) for attempting to smuggle almost three kilograms of heroin hidden in food packaging this past Saturday.

The suspect was flagged by intelligence-led risk assessment protocols prior to his arrival on a flight originating from a Southeast Asian country, according to a statement from the Judiciary Police (PJ).

In collaboration, Macau Customs and the Public Security Police Force (PSP) detained the man after he had picked up his luggage.

Authorities discovered 49 food packages labeled “tuna spread,” “biscuits,” and “canned goods.” Several cans contained white powder instead of food, later confirmed by forensic analysis as heroin weighing 2,987g.

Police estimated the drugs’ street value at about MOP4.18 million.

Investigators believe the suspect was recruited by a drug trafficking syndicate in Malaysia and instructed to collect the narcotics before bringing them to Macau. He was allegedly promised MOP6,000 for completing the task. Police said the drugs were intended for distribution in a nearby region.

The case has been transferred to the Public Prosecutions Office on charges of unlawful trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The investigation into identifying other syndicate members is still ongoing.