Malaysian Man Gets 10 Years for Smuggling Marijuana to Taiwan

A Malaysian national, identified as MOHD, received a heavy sentence of 10 years and 3 months for attempting to smuggle marijuana into Taiwan. The drugs, valued at approximately 4 million NT dollars, were discovered when he arrived at Kaohsiung International Airport.

MOHD was instructed by an individual known as "Nicky" to transport the marijuana from Bangkok, Thailand. He received the drugs at a hotel in Bangkok before concealing them in his luggage for the flight to Taiwan. Upon arrival on January 9th, his nervous demeanor at customs alerted authorities, leading to the seizure of six packages, totaling about 3 kilograms of marijuana.

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At first I didn't know it was marijuana, that it was drugs. I only knew after you told me.

During the investigation, MOHD's defense attorney attempted to secure a sentence reduction by citing a provision for admitting guilt during the investigation and trial. However, court records revealed that MOHD initially denied knowledge of the drugs, claiming he only learned they were illegal substances when informed by officials. He later admitted to lying due to fear and nervousness about his first visit to Taiwan. The judge ruled that his initial denial meant he did not qualify for the reduced sentence based on self-confession.

Despite the drugs not entering the market, the court imposed the severe sentence, considering MOHD's lack of family or stable residence in Taiwan. He is also subject to deportation after serving his sentence. The ruling is subject to appeal.

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I was scared and nervous because it was my first time in Taiwan, so I denied it.