A local man was recently arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) officers for suspected drug offences.

The NCB said the 20-year-old suspect was detained while sitting inside his car parked near a government building.

A search of the car found drinking straws and plastic packages containing a crystalised substance believed to be methamphetamine or Syabu.

Two cartons and nine small packs of various brands of cigarettes were also found during the search, and handed over to the Royal Customs and Excise Department.

The NCB also said that a subsequent search of the suspect’s house revealed a digital weighing device and several more plastic packages containing a crystalised substance believed to be methamphetamine. The case is being investigated under Section 3A of the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Chapter 27, for the possession of controlled drugs for trafficking purposes.

If found guilty, the minimum penalty is five years’ imprisonment and five strokes of the cane, while the maximum penalty is 20 years’ imprisonment and 15 strokes of the cane.

The case is also being investigated under Section 6(b) of the MDA, Chapter 27, for the consumption of controlled drugs.

Upon conviction, the penalty is imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of BND20,000, or both.

Reports can be lodged at the NCB at 2448877 during office hours or the 8777444 hotline, or email [email protected]