The influencers drug money laundering trend is on the rise as police uncover how crime syndicates recruit entrepreneurs and social media figures to disguise drug profits. Criminals use businesses as a cover to justify luxury lifestyles that, in reality, are funded by narcotics.
Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said recent arrests confirm the trend. In April, police detained a 34-year-old man from Terengganu who ran a cosmetic company. They seized cars and jewellery worth RM981,500. Two months later, a 34-year-old female influencer in Kelantan was arrested. Police recovered assets valued at RM1.12mil, nine luxury cars, and drugs worth RM6.16mil.
Investigations revealed a pattern of syndicates hiding behind seemingly legitimate ventures. Comm Hussein stressed that his department will follow money trails and enforce the law to dismantle such networks. He confirmed that the NCID has identified more business owners and influencers linked to the trade. Authorities continue to collect intelligence, track finances, and monitor online platforms used to sell drugs.
The NCID director explained how to distinguish between genuine companies and laundering outfits. Authentic businesses maintain sales consistent with their scale, use proper banking channels, and follow regulations. In contrast, businesses tied to syndicates often flaunt sudden wealth and prefer cash transactions. Owners also keep themselves distant from direct drug operations, which makes detection harder.
He noted that cosmetic ventures attract drug money because of their high margins and light regulation. The ease of selling through social media and e-commerce adds to their appeal. Nonetheless, the NCID has traced illegal funds by monitoring business activities and lifestyles. The agency also works with Bank Negara Malaysia, the Companies Commission of Malaysia, the Inland Revenue Board, and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to build complete financial profiles.
Comm Hussein proposed stronger checks on business licences, tighter oversight of e-commerce, and stricter monitoring of cosmetic sales. He warned that business owners and influencers laundering drug money will face justice. According to him, between 2020 and 2025, police detained 145,849 drug traffickers.
The influencers drug money laundering trend remains under control, but police are stepping up enforcement. Comm Hussein emphasized that no one is above the law. He urged the public to cooperate and report any drug-related activities to the NCID hotline at 012-208 7222.
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