KUALA LUMPUR: The police have released a list of 161 individuals wanted for alleged drug distribution cases here.

Federal deputy Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director Deputy Comm Datuk Kang Chez Chiang said their whereabouts are being traced.

"They are being investigated under the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985.

"Anyone with information on the whereabouts of these suspects should contact the police or head over to the nearest police station immediately," he urged.

He added that the police would use all means to curb the increasing drug problem in the country.

"Our department works together with the media, non-governmental organisations and community leaders to cut off drug syndicates at the root," he said in a statement Friday.

On Monday, NCID director Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Mokhtar Mohd Shariff said the department was taking stern action against drug distribution syndicates nationwide.

"We are aware that some of these individuals have fled the country to evade capture. They can run, but sooner or later, we will get them," he said.