Malaysian pilot's detention extended in Jakarta drug probe

Authorities in Indonesia have extended the detention of a Malaysian pilot currently under investigation for drug smuggling. Following an initial 60-day period, the suspect is now held under a court order for an additional 30 days, which may be extended for another 30 days.

The investigation stems from the arrest of a 39-year-old Malaysian Airlines pilot at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta last July. During that operation, authorities seized 15 packages containing approximately 70,000 capsules suspected of containing ecstasy and methamphetamine, weighing a total of 25 kilograms.

In Malaysia, the investigation involves a wider syndicate. One other pilot and six individuals have been detained under the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985 as part of the ongoing probe into alleged involvement by airline staff in drug trafficking activities.