Kedah police chief Adzli Abu Shah said the transfer was initiated out of public interest in view of the ongoing investigation, and not to protect the officer, Berita Harian reported.

“We will take further action (once sufficient evidence is obtained) even if the suspect is a policeman,” he said.

Adzli said narcotics cases require thorough investigation and credible evidence before further action can be taken.

The syndicate reportedly emerged following the death of a so-called local drug lord, “Mat Nahar”, about six years ago.

Several people formerly linked to Mat Nahar’s syndicate are said to have joined the new operation.

Adzli also said police have arrested a 47-year-old man known as “Bagok” over links to the syndicate.

He said the suspect is from Kampung Kelibung in Langkawi and was initially arrested in April after testing positive for drugs. However, he was not found in possession of any narcotic.

He was rearrested three days ago, and again tested positive.

Separately, Adzli said 54 policemen in Kedah were arrested for drug addiction from 2023 to April this year. Thirty-eight of them were charged in court and suspended, and three cases are pending further action.