AN illegal temple in Klang was found to be harbouring a dark secret, as it was discovered to be used as a storage facility for heroin.
This illicit activity was uncovered through five police raids conducted between October 13 and 19, which successfully dismantled four drug trafficking syndicates.
Selangor Police Chief, Datuk Shazeli Kahar, stated that 46 plastic packages containing a total of 20.6 kilograms (kg) of heroin were discovered inside a storage area at the temple.
According to him, checks revealed that the land belongs to the government and was designated for sewerage purposes.
“Investigations are ongoing, but we do not rule out the possibility that the unregistered temple was used as a front for the operations of drug trafficking syndicates.
“The premises is believed to have been used as a drug storage facility since the beginning of this year,” he said.
Shazeli added that a man who worked part-time at the temple has also been detained to assist with the investigation.
He noted that the suspect resided on the premises and assisted in managing the temple from time to time.
“Further investigations are underway to determine whether there are any elements of gangsterism involved at the location.
“However, as of now, the case pertains to drug trafficking syndicates,” he explained.
In a related development, he stated that four other raids were conducted—two in Rawang and two at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
In total, 219.7 kg of drugs were seized, including cannabis flowers, cannabis, ketamine, and ecstasy, with an estimated value of RM16.2 million.
“The five raids led to the arrest of eight suspects, including four foreign nationals acting as drug mules from Europe and East Asia.
“The drugs carried by these mules were detected while in transit through the country,” he said.
One of the local suspects had a prior criminal record, consisting of seven past offences.
“Checks on the travel documents of the foreign suspects indicate that they entered the country using social visit passes. Cross-verification is currently being conducted with the Immigration Department.
“The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952,” he said. – October 23, 2026