PDRM Detects Fentanyl in M’sia, the “Zombie Drug” That’s 50 Times More Potent Than Heroin

In April last year, PDRM said that Fentanyl, also known as a “Zombie Drug”, was not in the Malaysian market. Unfortunately, the authorities can’t say the same anymore.

In a media conference today (March 26), Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Datuk Seri Ayob Khan, confirmed that the “Zombie drug” has been detected in the country. A recent analysis of sewage water samples around Klang Valley and Johor Bahru has shown the increasing use of Fentanyl in Malaysia.

“And that’s not even the analysis we did for the entire Malaysia,” Ayob told the media.

The operation marked the collaboration in the field of forensic science between the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and the National University of Malaysia (UKM) regarding illicit substances, including new psychoactive drugs.

In December 2023, the Royal Malaysian Customs (JKDM) raided a narcotics activity and confiscated over 800 KG of fentanyl worth RM44.4 million. The substance was raided at KLIA, and the substance was delivered by an international drug syndicate from Mumbai Airport in India.

KLIA was a pit stop for the drugs before they were scheduled to be flown to Dubai, which never happened.

JKDM said that although the shipment was not meant for the Malaysian market, it was still concerning. Now that the “Zombie drug” is here on our soil, should we be more worried?

Does the “Zombie drug” turn a person into a zombie?

While Fentanyl does not actually turn you into a flesh-eating zombie, the consequences can be equally terrifying.

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug used as a pain relief and anesthetic.

However, it is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin.

When mixed with another drug known as xylazine, that’s when the zombie reference comes to life.

Based on an article by Aliya Health Group, both fentanyl and xylazine can weaken the central nervous system, resulting in respiratory problems, coma, and even death. The drug stops blood flow to the skin, causing tissue damage and necrosis (also known as rotting skin); couple those symptoms with confusion and loss of awareness, and what does it remind you of?

Zombies. Hence, its nickname.

Let’s hope PDRM managed to crack down the criminal syndicates that supply these dangerous substances before things get far, far worse.

Also read: Anti-Drug Agency: Drug Abuse Cases Among School Students as Young as 11yo On the Rise in M’sia