Lorry driver admits taking drugs to stay awake during long trips

JITRA: A lorry driver carrying cement was detained after testing positive for methamphetamine during a special integrated drug operation targeting commercial vehicles at the Jitra Toll Plaza here last night.

The 43-year-old tested positive during a urine screening conducted by the Kedah National Anti-Drug Agency (Nada) at 10pm.

The Pendang man told enforcement personnel that he took drugs to stay awake and maintain his energy while driving the lorry.

He said he was transporting a load of cement from Perlis to Perak.

The driver, who claimed to have been taking drugs for several years, said he had worked for the company for about a year.

"I promise I won't take drugs again. It was because of my friends' influence.

"I started taking drugs after my second child was born, and now I have three children.

"I took drugs to stay awake and maintain my energy because I had to drive the lorry alone from Perlis to Perak," he said when met here last night.

Kedah Road Transport Department (RTD) director Stien Van Lutam said the man was detained by Nada for further investigation.

"Taking drugs while driving is extremely dangerous and could endanger other road users," he said.

The integrated operation involved personnel from Kedah RTD, Nada and the Kedah Department of Environment.

Stien said six lorry and express bus drivers had tested positive for methamphetamine during similar operations conducted since July, with their cases referred to Nada for further action.

He said their Competent Driving Licence (CDL) and Vocational Licence would be withheld pending completion of investigations and action by Nada.

"The Vocational Licence will also be suspended for three months, subject to the applicable provisions and regulations," he said.