Army officer arrested at public university with firearm, preliminary test positive for ketum compound

The Malaysian Army said all firearms and ammunition in its storage facilities were accounted for after an officer was arrested with a firearm and ammunition and tested positive for Mitragynine in an initial urine screening. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

First Published: Saturday, 03 Oct 2026 12:29 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 3 — The Malaysian Army (TDM) has confirmed that all firearms and ammunition in its storage facilities are fully accounted for following the arrest of an army officer at a public university on September 28.

The Strategic Communications Branch of the Army Headquarters said today that immediate inspections of all armouries and storage facilities were conducted as soon as the force received information regarding the incident.

According to the statement, the officer was detained by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to assist in investigations after being found in possession of a firearm, a quantity of ammunition, and a liquid suspected to be a prohibited substance.

“An initial urine screening of the officer tested positive for Mitragynine however, this result remains subject to further confirmation through laboratory analysis and the outcome of the authorities’ investigation.

“TDM views the matters involving military personnel and officers seriously, particularly those concerning discipline, security, and adherence to regulations,” the statement read.

TDM reiterated its commitment to cooperating fully with the authorities and taking appropriate action should any regulatory violations be confirmed by the investigation findings.

“Any conclusions regarding the incident must be based on facts and the authorities’ investigation findings, rather than unverified information.

“TDM also urges the public to refrain from speculation or spreading information that could mislead the community and compromise the investigation process,” the statement added.

Further updates will be announced through official TDM channels at the appropriate time. — Bernama