A man photographs a Malaysia Airlines plane at Kuala Lumpur Airport (symbolic image).Image: keystone
A Swiss citizen has been charged with drug smuggling in Malaysia. Customs officials discovered several kilograms of heroin hidden in his luggage.
April 3, 2026, 4:34 p.mApril 3, 2026, 4:34 p.m
Malaysian authorities prevented suspected drug smuggling at Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA2) in February. A Swiss citizen was checked upon entry after a scan of his luggage showed suspicious images. The check took place on February 24th in the arrivals area.
Upon closer inspection, customs officials discovered several black packages hidden in a hose reel box. A total of 3.3 kilograms of heroin were seized. The estimated value of the drugs is the equivalent of tens of thousands of francs.
Proceedings are underway – harsh penalties are imminent
The inspection was carried out jointly by the customs authority and the border protection agency. The suspect and the seized drugs were then handed over to the investigating authorities.
Heroin falls under the strict narcotics law in Malaysia. The man has now been charged in court. In Malaysia, drug offenses face particularly harsh penalties, including the death penalty in some cases. (mke)