What led to the conviction of six individuals for drug trafficking at KLIA2?

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Conviction of Six Individuals for Drug Trafficking at KLIA2 Upheld

The Court of Appeal has affirmed the life imprisonment and whipping sentences for six individuals convicted of trafficking 7.58 kg of methamphetamine at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA2) in 2018. This decision by the appellate court found no merit in the appeal, confirming the High Court's original judgment. The conviction stemmed from the discovery of the drugs, which were concealed on the appellants' persons, leading the courts to infer their knowledge of the illicit cargo.
Discovery of Methamphetamine During Security Screening

The six individuals, including two who were teenagers at the time of their arrest, were apprehended by auxiliary police at KLIA2 during a security screening on August 11, 2018. The substantial quantity of 7.58 kg of methamphetamine was found strapped to their thighs and hidden within the soles of their shoes. This method of concealment, along with the quantity of drugs involved, formed a critical part of the evidence presented.
Rejection of the "Innocent Carrier" Defence

The defence put forth by the appellants claimed they were unaware of the true nature of the packages they were carrying, stating they believed they were delivering gym supplements or clenbuterol to South Korea as part of a part-time job. However, the Court of Appeal upheld the High Court's finding that the defence of being an "innocent carrier" was not applicable. This rejection was based on the appellants' failure to make adequate inquiries about the items they were transporting, a requirement under the law.
Inference of Knowledge from Caution Statements

A significant factor in the conviction was the trial judge's inference that the appellants possessed knowledge of carrying prohibited drugs. This inference was drawn directly from the caution statements provided by the appellants themselves. The courts concluded that the circumstances surrounding the drug concealment and the appellants' actions indicated a level of awareness that negated their claims of ignorance regarding the illicit substances. Consequently, the High Court's initial conviction in July of the previous year, followed by the sentencing of life imprisonment and 15 strokes of the cane, was deemed sound.

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What led to the conviction of six individuals for drug trafficking at KLIA2?

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